Mediterranean Couscous & Pomegranate Delight
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this delightful Couscous and Pomegranate Salad. Bursting with the sweetness of dried apricots and pomegranate seeds, this dish is beautifully complemented by the tangy notes of sherry wine vinegar and the subtle heat from harissa. Perfect as a light lunch or a flavorful side dish, it brings a refreshing twist to your table. This salad not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a burst of color and texture, making it a feast for the eyes as well. Enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal that captures the essence of fresh, wholesome ingredients!
N/A
Servings
200
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Couscous
1 cup (dry)
Boiling water
as needed (for soaking)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (extra virgin)
Sherry wine vinegar
2 teaspoons (for dressing)
Harissa
1/2 teaspoon (for spiciness)
Lemon juice
1 teaspoon (freshly squeezed)
Dried apricots
1 cup (diced)
Pomegranate seeds
2-3 cups (from 1 pomegranate)
Green pepper
1 (diced)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the couscous with olive oil, sherry wine vinegar, harissa, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture to ensure that the couscous is evenly coated with the liquid ingredients.
2
Carefully pour boiling water over the couscous until it is just covered. Stir gently to combine. If the couscous appears dry, you may add a bit more boiling water, ensuring it's well moistened. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and allow it to sit undisturbed for about 6 minutes.
3
Once the couscous has absorbed the water, use a fork to fluff it up gently. If the couscous is still too dry or firm, add a little more boiling water, cover, and let it rest for a few additional minutes.
4
After fluffing, fold in the diced green pepper and pomegranate seeds, mixing gently to combine. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnishing with extra pomegranate seeds if desired.
Nutrition Information
6g
Fat
34g
Carbs
4g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mediterranean Couscous & Pomegranate Delight?
It is a vibrant, healthy Mediterranean-style salad featuring couscous, sweet pomegranate seeds, dried apricots, and a tangy harissa dressing.
How long does it take for the couscous to soak?
The couscous should sit undisturbed in boiling water for about 6 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
What if my couscous is too dry after 6 minutes?
If the couscous is still too dry or firm, add a little more boiling water, cover it, and let it rest for a few more minutes.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian and also vegan-friendly.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
Can I substitute the sherry wine vinegar?
Yes, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if you do not have sherry wine vinegar.
What is Harissa and is it spicy?
Harissa is a North African chili paste. This recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon, which provides a subtle heat without being overly spicy.
Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?
Yes, fresh diced apricots can be used, though they will provide a softer texture compared to the chewy dried apricots.
How many pomegranates do I need?
You will need 2 to 3 cups of seeds, which typically come from one large pomegranate.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Couscous is made from wheat and contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute the couscous with quinoa or millet.
How much protein is in this salad?
This salad provides 4g of protein per serving.
Should I serve this dish hot or cold?
This salad is best served either chilled or at room temperature.
How much fat is in this recipe?
There are 6g of fat per serving, primarily from the heart-healthy olive oil.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely. Diced cucumber, red onion, or cherry tomatoes would make excellent additions.
How do I fluff the couscous?
Once the water is absorbed, use a fork to gently scrape and separate the grains.
What type of olive oil should I use?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor in this Mediterranean dish.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 34g of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?
Yes, lime juice can be used as a substitute for a slightly different citrus profile.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is classified as an easy recipe because it requires no stovetop cooking of the couscous, only soaking.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, making it a few hours ahead allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, toasted slivered almonds or pistachios would add a wonderful crunch to this dish.
Do I need to cook the green pepper?
No, the green pepper is diced and folded in raw to provide a fresh, crunchy texture.
What can I serve this with?
It pairs excellently with grilled chicken, falafel, or roasted lamb, or it can be eaten alone as a light lunch.
Is there any cholesterol in this dish?
Based on the ingredients list, this dish contains 0mg of cholesterol.
What if I don't have Harissa?
You can substitute harissa with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Does the recipe require salt?
The recipe does not list salt explicitly, but you may add a pinch to the boiling water or finished salad to taste.
How do I get the seeds out of the pomegranate?
Cut the pomegranate in half and tap the back with a wooden spoon over a bowl, or submerge it in water to separate the seeds from the pith.
Can I use pearl (Israeli) couscous?
You can, but pearl couscous must be simmered on the stove rather than just soaked in boiling water.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the sweetness from the apricots and pomegranate usually makes it a hit with children, especially if the harissa is kept mild.