Couscous salad
This couscous salad features fluffy couscous paired with fresh vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing. It’s a quick and easy dish that works well as a light meal or side.
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
1 cup couscous1 cup chicken gravy
1/4 cup olive oil
1 cucumber
1/2 red onion
1 red pepper
1 tomato
2 tbsp fresh parsley
2 tbsp lemon juice
This refreshing couscous salad is a perfect blend of fluffy couscous, fresh vegetables, and a hint of zesty lemon. It's a quick and easy dish that makes for a delightful side or a light meal on its own.
Instructions:
- Place the couscous in a large heatproof bowl.
- Heat the chicken gravy until it is hot but not boiling.
- Pour the hot chicken gravy over the couscous.
- Cover the bowl with a lid or plate and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the couscous has absorbed the gravy and is tender.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.
- While the couscous is absorbing the gravy, wash and dice the cucumber, red onion, red pepper, and tomato into small, uniform pieces.
- Finely chop the fresh parsley.
- Once the couscous is ready, transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the diced cucumber, red onion, red pepper, tomato, and chopped parsley to the couscous.
- Pour in the olive oil and lemon juice over the couscous mixture.
- Toss everything together gently to ensure the ingredients are evenly mixed and well-coated with the dressing.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and pepper to your preference.
- Serve the couscous salad immediately, or for best results, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
With its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors, this couscous salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the palate. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Enjoy your delicious, healthy couscous salad!
Couscous salad FAQ:
The couscous will take about 5 minutes to absorb the hot chicken gravy. Make sure to cover the bowl during this time to keep the steam in.
You can substitute chicken gravy with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or use water with a bit of salt for a lighter flavor. This will still allow the couscous to cook properly.
Yes, you can store the couscous salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture and flavor.
A large heatproof bowl is recommended for preparing the couscous, allowing enough space for it to expand as it absorbs the gravy. Alternatively, a medium-sized saucepan can be used for cooking couscous.
The couscous is done when it has fully absorbed the liquid and is tender. Fluff it with a fork after letting it sit to ensure there are no clumps.
Cooking Tips:
- For a fluffier couscous, make sure to let it steam in the chicken gravy covered for at least 5 minutes.
- Add the olive oil gradually while fluffing the couscous with a fork to prevent it from clumping together.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
- Feel free to add in other fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a bit of heat, adding a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes can elevate the dish.
Nutrition Facts
6 ServingsCalories 80kcal
Protein 2.46g
Carbohydrates 16g
Fiber 1.67g
Sugar 2.79g
Fat 11g
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