Mediterranean-Style Couscous Salad 🥗🍋

 New Recipe

Mediterranean-Style Couscous Salad 🥗🍋

Ingredients:

• For the Couscous:

  • 1 cup couscous
  • 1 cup vegetable broth or water
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt

• For the Vegetables:

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small cucumber, diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
  • 1/4 cup black or green olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional for a vegan version)

• For the Dressing:

  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

• For Garnish:

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Cook the Couscous:

   • Bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the olive oil and salt.
   • Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, roasted red peppers, and olives. If using feta cheese, set it aside to add at the end.

3. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

4. Assemble the Salad:

   • Add the cooked couscous to the bowl of vegetables. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.
   • If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the salad. Add the chopped parsley and mint.

5. Serve:

   • Chill the salad in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, or serve it immediately at room temperature.
   • Garnish with additional parsley or mint if desired.

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Optional Add-Ins:

• Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier dish.
• Nuts: Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a crunchy texture.
• Dried Fruit: Toss in raisins or dried cranberries for a sweet contrast.

Would you like suggestions for pairing this dish with a main course or dessert? 🍷