Couscous Salad

Couscous Salad with Fresh Vegetables: An Explosion of Flavor and Texture

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 1

Couscous is a versatile ingredient that has gained popularity worldwide due to its quick preparation and easy integration into various dishes. This couscous salad is not only delicious but also a healthy choice, packed with nutrients and fresh flavors. It is perfect as a side dish or as a light meal, ideal for warm days.

Ingredients

- 60 g couscous
- 90 ml water
- 1/2 teaspoon vegetable seasoning (or other preferred spice)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 green onion, sliced
- A few sprigs of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Technique: Step by Step

1. Boil the Water: In a small pot, bring the water to a boil, adding the vegetable seasoning and 1 tablespoon of olive oil at the same time. These ingredients will add a flavor note to the couscous during preparation.

2. Add the Couscous: Once the water starts boiling, add the couscous to the water. Cover the pot with a lid and let it boil for 5 minutes. This is the easy part, and the couscous will absorb all the flavor of the seasoned water.

3. Fluff the Couscous: After 5 minutes, remove the lid and use a fork to fluff the couscous. It should be fluffy and have no lumps. If you have issues with lumps, don't panic! Continue to gently stir until they break apart.

4. Prepare the Vegetables: In a separate bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced green onion, and chopped parsley. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors.

5. Mix Everything: Take the cooled couscous and mix it with the vegetables. Make sure everything is well incorporated. This combination of fresh ingredients not only adds fantastic flavor but also a vibrant palette of colors.

6. Chill in the Refrigerator: Place the salad in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to blend and intensify, resulting in a truly delicious salad.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Couscous: There are different types of couscous, such as whole grain or lemon-flavored. Choose the one that best suits your taste preferences.
- Varied Vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as red peppers, cucumbers, or olives. Each vegetable will add a distinct note to your salad.
- Spices: Experiment with various spices, such as paprika, cumin, or herbes de Provence. These can completely transform the flavor of the salad.
- Serving: This salad can be served as an appetizer or side dish alongside grilled meat or fish.

Nutritional Benefits

Couscous is a good source of carbohydrates and protein, providing long-lasting energy. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene, which contributes to heart health, while olive oil brings healthy fats for the heart. This salad is not only tasty but also nutritious, with approximately 300 calories per serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much couscous should I use for more servings?
A general ratio is 60 g of couscous per person. So, for 4 servings, use 240 g of couscous.

2. How can I make the salad more filling?
You can add cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken breast to turn the salad into a more substantial meal.

3. Can I use store-bought couscous?
Of course! Store-bought couscous is just as good and is prepared just as easily. Just check that it doesn't contain unhealthy additives.

4. How long can the salad be kept in the refrigerator?
Couscous salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure it is covered to prevent drying out.

Pairing Suggestions

This delicious salad pairs perfectly with a glass of fresh lemonade or a dry white wine. It can also be enjoyed alongside grilled steak or baked fish, providing a pleasant contrast of flavors.

Personal Note

This couscous salad has quickly become one of my favorite recipes due to its versatility. Whether I prepare it for a family dinner or a meal with friends, every bite is full of freshness and vitality. Feel free to personalize it to your tastes by adding ingredients you like or experimenting with new flavor combinations.

In conclusion, couscous salad is an excellent choice for any occasion, easy to prepare and full of flavor. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! Bon appétit!