Couscous Salad with Herbs and Dried Fruit Recipe

Discover the Delight of Couscous Salad with Herbs and Dried Fruit

If you're in search of a refreshing, flavorful dish that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare, look no further than a couscous salad with herbs and dried fruit. This vibrant salad combines the nutty taste of couscous with the sweetness of dried fruits and the fresh aroma of herbs, creating a delightful fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Couscous, a staple in North African cuisine, is made from tiny granules of semolina flour. It pairs perfectly with a variety of ingredients, making it a versatile base for salads. When combined with fresh herbs and dried fruits, couscous becomes a colorful and satisfying dish ideal for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish.

Ingredients You Will Need

To create this delicious couscous salad, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup of couscous
• 1 1/4 cups of boiling water
• 1/2 cup of dried apricots, chopped
• 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup of toasted almonds or pine nuts
• Juice of one lemon
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing Your Couscous Salad

Step 1: Begin by preparing the couscous. Place it in a large bowl and pour the boiling water over it. Cover the bowl and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the couscous absorbs the water. Fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.

Step 2: Add the chopped dried apricots and raisins or cranberries to the couscous. The sweetness from these dried fruits will complement the dish perfectly. Follow this by adding the fresh parsley and mint for an aromatic touch.

The Final Touches

Step 3: Toast your choice of almonds or pine nuts until golden brown. This step enhances the nutty flavor and adds a crunchy texture to your salad. Add them to the couscous mixture.

Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil. Drizzle this dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

This couscous salad is best served at room temperature, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully. It's an excellent dish to prepare ahead of time for gatherings or meal prep as it tastes even better after sitting for a few hours.

The salad can be enjoyed on its own or paired with grilled meats or fish for a more substantial meal. It’s also a great addition to any picnic or potluck, sure to impress with its vibrant colors and refreshing taste.

Experiment with different herbs or add seasonal vegetables like cucumber or cherry tomatoes to make it your own. This versatile salad is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy meal that's bursting with flavor.