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Moroccan Couscous Salad

Moroccan Couscous Salad
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Moroccan Couscous Salad is a vibrant, fresh, and flavorful dish combining fluffy couscous with crisp vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a warm, tangy dressing. Quick and easy to prepare, this versatile salad suits any occasion and can be adapted to various dietary preferences, offering a nutritious and balanced meal bursting with Moroccan-inspired spices.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup fine or medium grain couscous
  • 1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cucumber, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, minced

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon (a pinch)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1/4 cup toasted almonds or pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup raisins or dried fruit

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Couscous: Bring water or vegetable broth to a boil, then pour it over the couscous in a heatproof bowl. Cover and let it sit for about 5 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the couscous gently with a fork to keep it light and fluffy.
  2. Chop the Vegetables: While the couscous is resting, finely chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Mince the fresh parsley and mint leaves, ensuring the herbs are vibrant and ready to infuse the salad with flavor.
  3. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. This dressing will bring all the ingredients together with a warm, tangy Moroccan essence.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the fluffed couscous to a large mixing bowl and add the chopped vegetables and herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Add Optional Extras: If desired, sprinkle toasted nuts or dried fruit into the salad for added texture and bursts of flavor. Stir once more to distribute them evenly.

Notes

  • Use fresh parsley and mint to capture authentic Moroccan flavors.
  • Don’t overcook or soak couscous; let it steam off heat to avoid mushiness.
  • Adjust lemon juice, spices, salt, and pepper to taste as you go.
  • Lightly toast almonds or pine nuts in a pan for extra crunch and aroma.
  • Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
  • The salad can be prepared a few hours in advance and kept chilled.
  • For gluten-free options, substitute couscous with quinoa or bulgur.

Nutrition

Keywords: Moroccan Couscous Salad, couscous salad, healthy salad, vegan salad, gluten free salad, Mediterranean salad, easy lunch, quick dinner, plant-based protein

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/moroccan-couscous-salad/