Zesty Couscous Salad

Egyptian Couscous Salad Recipe with Tomatoes, Zucchini, and Feta

Region / culture: Egypt | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Zesty Couscous Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. This salad is packed with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and zesty lemon juice, making it a delicious and healthy option for any occasion.

History

Couscous is a staple in North African cuisine and has been enjoyed for centuries. It is made from semolina wheat and is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. This particular recipe for Zesty Couscous Salad takes traditional couscous and gives it a modern twist with the addition of fresh vegetables and herbs.

Ingredients

couscous
3 cups of quick cooking couscous
3 cups of warm salted water (0.5 to 1 tsp of salt)
3 tbsp of olive oil
Oven preheated to 400°F (204°C)
Salad
2-3 large tomatoes, chopped
1-2 medium zucchini, halved and thinly sliced
0.5-1 cup of fresh basil, cut into strips
0.5 cup of green onions, sliced
1 cup of crumbled feta cheese
2 tbsp of lemon juice
3 tbsp of olive oil

How to prepare

Prepare the couscous

In a large oven dish, such as a 9" x 13" baking dish (or larger), place the couscous evenly without squashing the grains on top of each other. Gradually add the same volume of water while stirring constantly to ensure even absorption.
Continuously fluff the grains with a fork and break up any lumps. After approximately 15 minutes, when the grains are plump and tender, mix in 3 tbsp of vegetable oil. Rub the grains between your hands above the bowl to aerate and break up any remaining lumps.
Place the uncovered dish in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) and heat for about 10 minutes. Fluff the couscous again and continue heating until it is heated through, approximately 10 more minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
Combine the cooled couscous with lemon juice and olive oil. Add tomatoes, zucchini, basil, and green onions.
Chill for 4 hours or overnight. Add feta cheese right before serving.

Variations

Add grilled shrimp or tofu for an extra boost of protein.
Swap out the feta cheese for goat cheese or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Mix in some roasted red peppers or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to fluff the couscous with a fork after cooking to ensure that the grains are light and fluffy.

- For added flavor, toast the couscous in a dry skillet before cooking to enhance its nutty flavor.

- Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite vegetables and herbs for a unique twist on the recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Zesty Couscous Salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and satisfying meal. It also pairs well with a simple green salad or fresh fruit for a light and healthy lunch.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making this salad is to cook the couscous properly. Be sure to follow the instructions for cooking the couscous in the oven to ensure that it is light and fluffy. Additionally, be sure to chill the salad for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have couscous on hand, you can substitute quinoa or bulgur wheat for a similar texture and flavor. You can also swap out the vegetables in this recipe for your favorites, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes.

Make Ahead Tips

Zesty Couscous Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply prepare the salad as directed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and chill until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

To make this salad look even more appetizing, garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or mint, before serving. You can also serve it in a large bowl or platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. It also goes well with a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Zesty Couscous Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for 1-2 minutes or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Zesty Couscous Salad contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a light and healthy option for a meal or side dish.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Zesty Couscous Salad contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

This salad contains approximately 10 grams of fat per serving. The fats in this dish come from the olive oil and feta cheese, which are both sources of healthy monounsaturated fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Zesty Couscous Salad contains approximately 8 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables and herbs. Tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C, zucchini is rich in vitamin A, and basil is a good source of vitamin K.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat (couscous) and dairy (feta cheese), so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Overall, Zesty Couscous Salad is a nutritious and delicious dish that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. It is a great option for a light and refreshing meal or side dish.

Summary

Zesty Couscous Salad is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a summer meal or barbecue. Packed with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and zesty lemon juice, this salad is a delicious and healthy option for any occasion. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light lunch for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her quaint little cottage by the sea. Martha was a marvelous cook, always experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. As we sat in her sunny kitchen, sipping on tea and chatting about life, she suddenly jumped up with excitement.

"I have the perfect recipe to share with you, my dear friend," she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

I watched as she rummaged through her collection of cookbooks and handwritten notes, finally pulling out a faded piece of paper. She handed it to me with a smile, saying, "This is my zesty couscous salad recipe. It's a family favorite, and I know you'll love it."

I eagerly read through the recipe, taking in the fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. I could already imagine the burst of citrus and herbs dancing on my taste buds. Martha had acquired this recipe from a dear friend of hers who had traveled to Morocco and brought back the inspiration for this dish.

As Martha and I gathered the ingredients and started preparing the salad, she shared stories of her travels and culinary adventures. She spoke of the bustling spice markets, the colorful textiles, and the warm hospitality of the Moroccan people. I was captivated by her tales and felt a deep sense of wanderlust stirring within me.

As we finished assembling the salad and took our first bites, I was transported to a world of exotic flavors and aromatic spices. The tangy lemon, the earthy cumin, the sweet dried fruits – each ingredient harmonized perfectly, creating a symphony of tastes and textures in my mouth. I knew then and there that this recipe would become a cherished addition to my culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have made this zesty couscous salad countless times, each batch a little different from the last. I have added my own twist with fresh herbs from my garden, toasted nuts for crunch, and even grilled vegetables for a heartier version. But the essence of the recipe – the bold flavors, the vibrant colors, the sheer joy of creating something delicious from simple ingredients – remains unchanged.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, passing on Martha's gift of culinary inspiration to those I hold dear. Each time I make this salad, I am reminded of that sunny day in Martha's kitchen, of the laughter and camaraderie we shared, and of the magic that happens when food brings people together.

As I sit here, penning down this story for my beloved granddaughter, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood my mind. The zesty couscous salad may just be a recipe on a piece of paper, but to me, it represents so much more – a connection to friends, to faraway lands, to the joy of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones.

And so, dear granddaughter, I hope that you will carry on this tradition of culinary exploration and discovery. May you find inspiration in the flavors of the world, in the stories behind each recipe, and in the simple pleasure of creating something delicious to nourish both body and soul.

With love and laughter,

Your Grandma