Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Grilled Vegetables
# Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Grilled Vegetables
The Mediterranean diet is renowned for its health advantages and lively flavors, making it a favored option for individuals who wish to dine well while savoring delightful dishes. One remarkable recipe that encapsulates the spirit of this culinary practice is the Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Grilled Vegetables. This dish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also loaded with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch, a side, or a substantial dinner.
## What is Couscous?
Couscous is a fundamental component in North African cuisine, crafted from semolina wheat. It is often confused for a grain, but it is actually a pasta. Various types of couscous exist, including traditional, whole wheat, and even varieties with flavorings. It cooks quickly, needing merely a few minutes of steaming or soaking in hot water, which makes it a practical ingredient for busy cooks.
## Nutritional Benefits
Couscous serves as a fine source of carbohydrates, supplying energy for daily tasks. Whole wheat couscous, in particular, provides extra fiber, which aids digestion and contributes to a healthy weight. The grilled vegetables within this salad introduce a wealth of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. Together, they form a harmonious dish that promotes overall health.
## Ingredients
To prepare a Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Grilled Vegetables, you will need the following components:
### For the Salad:
– 1 cup couscous (preferably whole wheat)
– 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth or water
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), sliced
– 1 red onion, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas (canned or boiled)
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
– Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
### For the Dressing:
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
## Preparation Steps
### 1. Prepare the Couscous:
In a pot, bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, take it off the heat and stir in the couscous. Cover and let it rest for about 5 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the couscous with a fork and allow it to cool.
### 2. Grill the Vegetables:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Toss the sliced zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion with a splash of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill the vegetables for around 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender and have nice grill marks. Remove from the grill and let them cool slightly.
### 3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooled couscous, grilled vegetables, cherry tomatoes, and chickpeas. If desired, incorporate the crumbled feta cheese.
### 4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the couscous salad and gently toss to combine all the elements.
### 5. Garnish and Serve:
Finish the salad with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and color. Serve immediately, or chill for an hour to let the flavors meld.
## Serving Suggestions
This Mediterranean Couscous Salad can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or cold. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or can be savored alone as a vegetarian dish. For a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp.
## Conclusion
The Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Grilled Vegetables is a fabulous dish that exemplifies the charm of Mediterranean culinary traditions. It is adaptable, nutritious, and simple to prepare, making it a wonderful addition to any meal. Whether hosting a summer barbecue or seeking a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is destined to impress with its fresh flavors and vibrant hues. Relish the taste of the Mediterranean right at your table!