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Moroccan Couscous Salad

Moroccan Couscous Salad
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Moroccan Couscous Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and flavorful dish combining fluffy couscous with crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a zesty spiced dressing. This quick and versatile salad is perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or refreshing dinner, offering a nutritious and balanced medley inspired by North African cuisine.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup couscous
  • 1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, finely diced
  • 1 cup cucumber, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Additions

  • 1/4 cup toasted almonds or slivered nuts
  • 1/4 cup golden raisins or dried fruits
  • Grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein
  • Bell peppers or zucchini, roasted (optional)
  • A pinch of harissa or chili flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Couscous: Bring water or vegetable broth to a boil, then pour it over the couscous in a heatproof bowl. Cover tightly and let it steam for about 5 minutes until fluffy. Fluff with a fork to separate the grains and let it cool slightly.
  2. Chop the Fresh Ingredients: While the couscous is steaming, finely dice the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Chop the parsley and mint leaves into small pieces to release their flavors.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. This blend provides the salad’s bright, aromatic zing.
  4. Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, toss the couscous with the chopped vegetables and herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad, then mix gently but thoroughly to coat each ingredient with flavor.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow all the flavors to marry. Before serving, give it a final toss and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Notes

  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a brighter dressing flavor.
  • Lightly toast spices like cumin and smoked paprika to unlock full aroma.
  • Fluff couscous gently with a fork to avoid clumping.
  • Chill salad before serving to enhance flavor melding.
  • Adjust acidity and salt to personal taste while mixing.
  • Serve with toasted almond slivers or pomegranate seeds for added crunch and color.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing the salad is not recommended to preserve texture and freshness.
  • Best served cold or at room temperature; reheating is not advised.

Nutrition

Keywords: Moroccan couscous salad, North African salad, couscous recipe, vegan couscous, gluten-free couscous salad, healthy salad recipes, quick couscous salad

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