unusual easter meals

Looking for an unusual Easter meal that stands out from the traditional ham or lamb? Try Honey-Glazed Duck with Citrus and Herb Couscous! This elegant dish features tender, crispy-skinned duck glazed with a sweet and savory honey coating, paired with a refreshing citrus and herb-infused couscous. It’s the perfect way to elevate your Easter feast with bold flavors and a touch of gourmet flair.

Honey-Glazed Duck with Citrus and Herb Couscous

admin

Ditch the usual Easter menu and surprise your guests with an unusual Easter meal! Honey-Glazed Duck with Citrus and Herb Couscous combines rich, crispy duck with a bright, aromatic couscous for a sophisticated holiday dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Servings 4

Ingredients

  

For the Honey-Glazed Duck:

• 2 duck breasts, skin-on
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Citrus and Herb Couscous:

• 1 cup couscous
• 1½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Zest and juice of 1 orange
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• ½ cup pomegranate seeds (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Honey-Glazed Duck

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Score the skin of the duck breasts in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.
• Season the duck breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
• Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the duck breasts skin-side down in the skillet and cook for about 6–8 minutes until the fat renders and the skin is crispy.
• Flip the duck breasts and sear the meat side for 2 minutes.
• In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Brush this glaze over the duck breasts.
• Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for about 10–12 minutes until the duck reaches an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) for medium rare or longer for desired doneness.
• Let the duck rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 2: Make the Citrus and Herb Couscous

• Bring chicken or vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan.
• Stir in couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.
• Fluff the couscous with a fork and stir in olive oil, orange zest, lemon zest, orange juice, lemon juice, parsley, mint, pomegranate seeds (if using), salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble

• Slice the honey-glazed duck breasts thinly.
• Serve over a bed of citrus and herb couscous.
• Garnish with additional fresh herbs or pomegranate seeds for a pop of color.

Notes

Here are 10 creative variations for this recipe:

1. Vegetarian Option: Replace duck with roasted portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices brushed with honey glaze.
2. Chicken Substitute: Use chicken thighs or breasts instead of duck for a more familiar protein.
3. Spicy Glaze: Add chili flakes or Sriracha to the honey glaze for a spicy kick.
4. Mediterranean Twist: Add olives and feta cheese to the couscous for Mediterranean flavors.
5. Wild Rice Base: Swap couscous with wild rice or quinoa for a heartier texture.
6. Fruit Glaze: Replace honey with apricot jam or orange marmalade for a fruity glaze.
7. Asian-Inspired Couscous: Add sesame oil, soy sauce, and scallions to the couscous for an Asian twist.
8. Duck Confit Style: Slow-cook duck legs instead of searing breasts for a richer flavor.
9. Cranberry Sauce Pairing: Serve with cranberry sauce instead of citrus couscous for a festive touch.
10. Spring Vegetable Medley: Add roasted asparagus or peas alongside couscous to highlight seasonal produce.

This Honey-Glazed Duck with Citrus and Herb Couscous is an elegant yet unusual Easter meal that will impress your guests while celebrating spring flavors! Enjoy your cooking!

Keyword unusual easter meal