Couscous salad is a fantastic choice for those looking to savor a healthy, light, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side or as a stand-alone meal. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines the nuttiness of couscous with an array of colorful vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing, creating a delightful salad that's quick and easy to prepare. Let's dive into the world of flavor and freshness with this delicious Couscous Salad!
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
1 cup couscous
1 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken broth (for cooking couscous)
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Couscous:
In a saucepan, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a boil.
Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the liquid.
Fluff the couscous with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.
2. Create the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Set the dressing aside.
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled couscous with the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
4. Add Fresh Herbs:
Gently fold in the freshly chopped parsley and mint. These herbs will provide a burst of freshness to your salad.
5. Drizzle with Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
6. Season and Serve:
Season the couscous salad with salt and pepper to taste.
You can serve it immediately or refrigerate it for an hour to let the flavors meld.
7. Enjoy:
Serve your Mediterranean Couscous Salad as a side dish, a light lunch, or a refreshing dinner. It's perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a quick and healthy meal option.
Conclusion:
Couscous salad is a delightful way to incorporate the flavors of the Mediterranean into your meal. It's not only pleasing to the palate but also a breeze to make, making it an ideal choice for those busy days when you want something delicious and nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein, or adjust the ingredients to match your personal taste preferences. The possibilities are endless, and the result is always a satisfying and healthy dish that will keep you coming back for more.
So, grab your ingredients, embark on a culinary adventure, and enjoy the fresh and flavorful world of Couscous Salad!
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