Chicken Couscous Salad
Chicken Couscous Salad Recipe from Morocco: Mustard, Lemon, Cinnamon, and Hot Pepper Infused
Introduction
Chicken Couscous Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This salad is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy couscous, and crunchy vegetables creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to please your taste buds.
History
Chicken Couscous Salad is a modern twist on traditional Middle Eastern cuisine. Couscous is a staple food in many Middle Eastern countries, and is often served as a side dish or as a base for salads. The addition of chicken, vegetables, and a tangy dressing gives this dish a unique and delicious flavor profile that is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup prepared honey mustard salad
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 dash hot pepper sauce
- 2 cup diced cooked chicken
- 2 cup cooked couscous
- 0.5 cup diced red bell pepper
- 0.25 cup thinly sliced green onions
- 0.25 cup raisins
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- salt
- ground pepper
- bibb or boston lettuce leaves
- 2 tbsp toasted sliced almonds (optional)
How to prepare
- In a salad bowl, whisk together the dressing, lemon juice, cinnamon, and pepper sauce.
- Add chicken, couscous, red pepper, green onions, raisins, cilantro, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss with the dressing.
Variations
- Add diced avocado or cucumber for a refreshing twist.
- Substitute quinoa for couscous for a gluten-free option.
- Use a different type of dressing, such as balsamic vinaigrette or tahini sauce, for a different flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the couscous according to package instructions to ensure that it is light and fluffy.
- You can use leftover cooked chicken for this recipe, or cook fresh chicken specifically for the salad.
- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables and herbs for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Couscous Salad on a bed of bibb or boston lettuce leaves for a beautiful presentation. Top with toasted sliced almonds for added crunch and flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to dice the chicken and vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
- Toss the salad gently to ensure that all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use cooked turkey or shrimp instead of chicken for a different protein option.
- Substitute dried cranberries or apricots for the raisins for a different flavor profile.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Chicken Couscous Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter for a beautiful presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or mint, for added color and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve the Chicken Couscous Salad with a side of hummus and pita bread for a complete meal.
- Pair with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing beverage option.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply microwave the salad for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
250
Carbohydrates
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
Fats
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
Proteins
- Protein: 20g
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin A: 15% DV
- Vitamin C: 45% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
Alergens
Contains: Wheat, Nuts
Summary
Chicken Couscous Salad is a well-balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a healthy and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.
Summary
Chicken Couscous Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this salad is a healthy and satisfying meal option that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha for lunch. As I walked into her kitchen, the fragrant aroma of fresh herbs and spices filled the air, tantalizing my senses. Martha greeted me with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye.
"Darling, I have a new recipe to share with you today," she said, her voice filled with excitement. "It's a Chicken Couscous Salad that I learned from a dear friend of mine during my travels in Morocco."
I watched in amazement as Martha effortlessly prepared the dish, her hands moving with grace and precision. She explained each step to me, from marinating the chicken in a blend of spices to cooking the couscous to perfection. The colors and textures of the ingredients were a feast for the eyes, and I could hardly wait to taste the final result.
As we sat down to eat, the flavors exploded in my mouth, a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and tangy. The tender chicken paired perfectly with the fluffy couscous, while the fresh vegetables added a crisp crunch to each bite. I savored every mouthful, my taste buds dancing with delight.
From that moment on, I was determined to master the art of making Chicken Couscous Salad. I asked Martha for her recipe, and she graciously shared it with me, along with her tips and tricks for perfecting the dish. I practiced tirelessly in my own kitchen, experimenting with different seasonings and ingredients until I found the perfect balance of flavors.
Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each batch more delicious than the last. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about its taste and asked for the recipe. I have even made it for special occasions, such as holiday gatherings and birthday parties, where it has always been a hit.
One day, as I was making Chicken Couscous Salad for a group of friends, one of them asked me where I had learned to make such a delicious dish. I smiled and told them the story of Martha and her magical recipe, passed down to me with love and care.
As I reflected on my journey with this recipe, I realized that cooking is about more than just following a set of instructions. It is about passion, creativity, and a deep connection to the ingredients and traditions that shape our culinary heritage. Each time I make Chicken Couscous Salad, I am transported back to that sunny day in Martha's kitchen, where I first fell in love with the art of cooking.
And so, I continue to share this recipe with others, passing on the knowledge and joy that I have gained from my experiences. I hope that it brings as much happiness and satisfaction to those who taste it as it has brought to me. For in the end, the true beauty of cooking lies in the memories and traditions that we create with each dish we make.
Categories
| Almond Recipes | Bibb Lettuce Recipes | Chicken Recipes | Chile Pepper Recipes | Couscous Recipes | Moroccan Recipes | Mustard Seed Recipes | Raisin Recipes | Salad Recipes |