Welcome to Roots Food Group, where today we're diving into a dish that perfectly embodies the spirit of Mediterranean cuisine: Mediterranean Couscous. This recipe promises a burst of vibrant flavors and holds a rich heritage that spans various cultures across the Mediterranean Sea. Whether you're looking for a healthy lunch option or a colorful side dish, this couscous salad will surely impress.
The Story Behind the Dish
Mediterranean Couscous captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, emphasizing fresh vegetables, legumes, and herbs. From North Africa, couscous has been a staple grain product of many North and Middle African countries. In Moroccan culture, it symbolizes abundance and blessings and is typically served during festivities.
Benefits
This dish is not only a delight for the taste buds but also offers numerous health benefits:
- Nutrient-rich: Full of fiber from vegetables and whole grains.
- Heart-healthy: Olive oil and olives provide good fats that support cardiovascular health.
- Protein-packed: Garbanzo beans and feta cheese add a nice boost of protein.
Cultural Meaning
Mediterranean Couscous is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of the rich culinary traditions passed down through generations across the Mediterranean region. It reflects the region's history of spice trade and its ability to integrate diverse flavors and ingredients into its cuisine.
The Recipe
Ingredients
Couscous
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup instant couscous
• 1⁄2 tsp. Kosher salt
• 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
Salad
• 1⁄2 cup diced Roma tomato, 1⁄4-inch dice
• 1⁄2 cup diced English cucumber seeds removed, 1⁄4-inch dice
• 1⁄2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1⁄2 cup canned garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
• 1⁄4 cup red onion, minced
• 1⁄2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 2 Tbsp. feta cheese
• 1 tsp. parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp. mint, chopped
• 1 tsp. basil, chopped
• 1⁄4 tsp. dried oregano
Lemon Dressing
• 1 tsp. lemon zest
• 2 Tbsp. lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
• 1⁄4 tsp. Kosher salt
• 1⁄4 tsp. black pepper
• 3 Tbsp. Extra-virgin olive oil
Directions
Couscous
Step 1: In a medium saucepan, bring water, salt, and olive oil to a boil. Add the couscous and stir quickly. Turn off the heat and cover.
Step 2: Let the couscous stand until tender, 5 minutes; fluff with a fork and let cool.
Salad
Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine couscous, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, garbanzo beans, red onion, olives, cheese, parsley, mint, basil, and oregano.
Lemon Dressing
Step 1: Whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil and whisk until a thickened dressing forms.
Step 2: Pour dressing over the couscous salad and stir to combine.
Enjoy this delightful Mediterranean Couscous as a standalone meal or a vibrant dinner table addition. It's a testament to the enduring charm of Mediterranean cooking and its ability to bring people together around fresh, flavorful dishes.
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