Looking for a vibrant, refreshing dish that bursts with flavor and is incredibly easy to make? Say hello to the Hot Squeeze Couscous Salad! This Middle Eastern-inspired delight combines fluffy couscous with juicy tomatoes and fresh parsley, all drizzled with a zesty lemon dressing that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect as a light lunch or a stunning side dish for your next gathering, this recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how simple ingredients can create a dish that’s anything but ordinary!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups boiling water
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
Instructions
- Begin by measuring out 1 cup of couscous and place it in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
- Boil 1 1/4 cups of water in a saucepan. Once boiling, carefully pour the hot water over the couscous in the mixing bowl.
- Cover the bowl with a lid or a plate to trap the steam and let the couscous sit for about 5 minutes, allowing it to absorb the water and soften.
- After 5 minutes, uncover the bowl and fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains. Set aside to cool slightly.
- While the couscous is cooling, prepare the other ingredients. Dice 1/2 cup of fresh tomatoes and chop 1/2 cup of fresh parsley.
- In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of lemon juice with a pinch of salt and pepper to create a simple dressing.
- Once the couscous has cooled, add the diced tomatoes and chopped parsley to the bowl with the couscous.
- Drizzle the lemon juice dressing over the couscous mixture and toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together, or serve immediately for a fresh taste.
- Serve the Hot Squeeze Couscous Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Fluffed Couscous: Make sure to fluff the couscous with a fork after it absorbs the water. This step is crucial for achieving that light and airy texture that makes the salad so delightful.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, ripe tomatoes and vibrant parsley for the best flavor. The quality of your ingredients can make a significant difference in the overall taste of the salad.
- Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to customize the lemon juice dressing to your liking. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add more lemon juice, or for a creamier texture, consider mixing in a dollop of yogurt.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Add More Veggies: Don’t hesitate to throw in other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch and nutrition. This salad is versatile and can be tailored to your preferences!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
