Tomato-Basil Couscous Salad

Introduction

History

Couscous is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and is commonly used in salads and side dishes. The combination of tomatoes, basil, and chickpeas in this salad is a classic flavor profile that has been enjoyed for generations.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the couscous according to package instructions to ensure it is light and fluffy.

- Use fresh basil for the best flavor, but dried basil can be substituted if necessary.

- Feel free to add other vegetables or protein sources to customize this salad to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoyed on its own as a light lunch.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making this salad is to toss the ingredients together gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the dressing.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite vegetables, herbs, or protein sources.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to toss it again before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this salad on a bed of lettuce for a beautiful presentation, or garnish with extra basil leaves for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this salad contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

This salad is a great source of carbohydrates, with the couscous and chickpeas providing a healthy dose of energy.

Fats

The olive oil in this salad provides heart-healthy fats that are essential for overall health.

Proteins

Chickpeas are a good source of plant-based protein, making this salad a satisfying and filling option.

Vitamins and minerals

Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, while basil is a good source of vitamin K and manganese.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the couscous and may contain allergens from other ingredients. Be sure to check for any specific allergens before preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, this Tomato-Basil Couscous Salad is a nutritious and balanced dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal.

Summary

Tomato-Basil Couscous Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flavors, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a potluck picnic by a dear friend. As I scanned the tables filled with delicious dishes, my eyes landed on a vibrant bowl of Tomato-Basil Couscous Salad. The colors of the tomatoes, basil, and couscous mingled together in a beautiful medley that beckoned me to try it.

I approached the owner of the dish, a lovely woman with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. She introduced herself as Mrs. Jenkins, and she shared with me the story behind the recipe. She told me that she had learned to make the salad many years ago from a dear friend who had traveled to Morocco and brought back the recipe. Mrs. Jenkins had since adapted the recipe to her own tastes, adding in fresh basil from her garden and ripe, juicy tomatoes from the farmer's market.

I was captivated by Mrs. Jenkins' story and the love and care she had poured into creating this dish. I asked her if she would be willing to share the recipe with me, and she graciously agreed. As she walked me through the steps of making the Tomato-Basil Couscous Salad, I could see the passion and joy she felt for cooking shining through.

The first step was to cook the couscous according to the package instructions. Mrs. Jenkins explained that couscous is a staple in Moroccan cuisine, and it is traditionally served with a variety of flavorful ingredients. While the couscous was cooking, she chopped up a colorful assortment of tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and red onion. The vibrant colors and fragrant aromas that filled the kitchen were a feast for the senses.

Once the couscous had cooled slightly, Mrs. Jenkins tossed it with the chopped tomatoes, basil, and red onion. She then drizzled the salad with a simple dressing made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The flavors melded together beautifully, creating a dish that was both light and refreshing.

As Mrs. Jenkins and I sat down to enjoy our meal, I marveled at how something as simple as a Tomato-Basil Couscous Salad could bring so much joy and connection. The recipe had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own touch and making it their own. I realized then that cooking was about more than just following a set of instructions – it was about sharing stories, memories, and love through food.

Since that day, the Tomato-Basil Couscous Salad has become a staple in my own recipe repertoire. I have made it countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and quiet dinners at home. Each time I prepare it, I think of Mrs. Jenkins and the story she shared with me that warm summer day. I am grateful for the gift of her recipe and the reminder that cooking is not just about nourishing our bodies, but also our souls.

As I sit here now, writing down the story of how I learned to make Tomato-Basil Couscous Salad, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and connection. Cooking has always been a way for me to express myself, to show love and care for those around me. And in sharing this recipe with you, I hope to pass on not just a list of ingredients and instructions, but a piece of my own story and the stories of all those who came before me. Cooking is a gift that keeps on giving, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share it with you.

Categories

| Basil Recipes | Chickpea Recipes | Couscous Recipes | Lettuce Recipes | Vegetarian Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients