Mediterranean Couscous Delight
This Mediterranean Couscous Delight combines the delicate flavors of saffron-infused couscous with the sweetness of plumped raisins and the crunch of toasted pine nuts. Bursting with fresh ingredients like diced celery and green onions, this salad is further elevated by a zesty lemon vinaigrette that brings all the flavors together. Perfect as a light lunch or a flavorful side dish, it is easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for both casual gatherings and elegant dinners.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
raisins
2/3 cup (soaked in boiling water then drained)
boiling water
2/3 cup (to soak raisins)
chicken broth
1 1/2 cups (for cooking couscous)
powdered saffron
1/8 teaspoon (for flavoring couscous)
couscous
1 1/2 cups (uncooked)
celery
1 1/2 cups (diced)
green onion
1/3 cup (sliced)
pine nuts
1/3 cup (toasted)
fresh parsley
1/4 cup (minced)
fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup (for dressing)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (for seasoning)
pepper
1/4 teaspoon (for seasoning)
ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon (for flavoring dressing)
olive oil
1/2 cup (for dressing)
Instructions
1
Start by placing the raisins in a small bowl and pouring boiling water over them. Allow the raisins to soak for 10 minutes to plump up, then drain and set aside.
2
In a medium saucepan, combine the chicken broth and powdered saffron. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the uncooked couscous, cover the saucepan, and remove it from heat immediately. Let it stand for about 4 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared couscous, soaked raisins, diced celery, sliced green onions, toasted pine nuts, and minced parsley. Toss the ingredients gently to combine them well.
4
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, salt, pepper, and ground cinnamon. Gradually pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking until the dressing is well blended.
5
Pour the dressing over the couscous mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Couscous Delight?
Mediterranean Couscous Delight is a light and flavorful salad featuring saffron-infused couscous, plump raisins, toasted pine nuts, and fresh vegetables tossed in a lemon vinaigrette.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 6 servings.
How long should I soak the raisins?
The raisins should be soaked in boiling water for 10 minutes to ensure they become plump.
What type of broth is used to cook the couscous?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth for cooking the couscous.
How is the saffron used in this recipe?
Powdered saffron is combined with the chicken broth and brought to a boil to flavor and color the couscous.
How long does the couscous need to stand after adding it to the broth?
After stirring the couscous into the boiling broth and removing it from heat, let it stand covered for 4 minutes.
What ingredients provide a crunch to the salad?
Diced celery and toasted pine nuts provide a satisfying crunch to this Mediterranean dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to make the recipe fully vegetarian.
What kind of nuts are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1/3 cup of toasted pine nuts.
How should the celery be prepared?
The celery should be finely diced before being added to the salad.
What are the components of the dressing?
The dressing consists of fresh lemon juice, salt, pepper, ground cinnamon, and olive oil.
How long should the salad be refrigerated?
The salad should be covered and refrigerated for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Is cinnamon used in this Mediterranean recipe?
Yes, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon is included in the vinaigrette for a subtle warmth.
Can I use water instead of chicken broth for the couscous?
You can use water, but using broth is recommended as it provides much more flavor to the couscous base.
How should I toast the pine nuts?
You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they are golden and fragrant.
What kind of parsley is best for this salad?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of minced fresh parsley for the best flavor.
Does this dish contain gluten?
Yes, couscous is a wheat-based product and contains gluten.
Is this salad served warm or cold?
This salad is intended to be served chilled after being refrigerated for at least an hour.
What can I substitute for saffron if I don't have it?
While the flavor will differ, a pinch of turmeric can provide a similar golden color to the couscous.
How much olive oil is required for the dressing?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of olive oil for the lemon vinaigrette.
How should the green onions be sliced?
The green onions should be thinly sliced before being tossed with the other ingredients.
Can I add other vegetables to this couscous salad?
Certainly! Diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes would be excellent additions.
What is the first step in preparing this recipe?
The first step is plumping the raisins by soaking them in boiling water for 10 minutes.
What makes this a healthy meal option?
It features whole ingredients, healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, and a variety of fresh vegetables.
Is this suitable as a main course?
Yes, it works well as a light lunch, though it is also a popular side dish for grilled meats or fish.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Fresh is preferred, but you can use about 1 tablespoon of dried parsley if fresh is unavailable.
How much salt is used in the seasoning?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of salt in the dressing.
Can I substitute lemon juice with lime juice?
You can, but lemon juice is more traditional for this specific Mediterranean flavor profile.
Is there any added sugar in this recipe?
No, there is no added sugar; the sweetness comes naturally from the raisins.
What is the best way to mix the dressing?
Whisk the lemon juice and spices together first, then gradually pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking.