Discover the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with our delightful Israeli Couscous Salad featuring artichokes and roasted red peppers! This refreshing dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a tantalizing treat for your taste buds. Perfect for a light lunch, a side dish at your next gathering, or even a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is a culinary adventure waiting to happen. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 25 minutes of your time, you can whip up a colorful, nutritious meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Israeli couscous
- 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 roasted red pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of Israeli couscous, 1 can of artichoke hearts (drained and chopped), 1 roasted red pepper (diced), 1/4 cup of chopped parsley, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 1 1/4 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the Israeli couscous and a pinch of salt. Stir well, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to low.
- Cook the couscous for about 8-10 minutes, or until it is tender and has absorbed the water. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes to steam. Then, fluff it with a fork and let it cool.
- While the couscous is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Drain and chop the artichoke hearts, dice the roasted red pepper, and chop the parsley. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled couscous, chopped artichokes, diced roasted red pepper, and chopped parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil. Pour this dressing over the couscous mixture.
- Toss everything together gently until all ingredients are well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more lemon juice or olive oil if desired.
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This can be served warm or chilled.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy your Israeli Couscous Salad with Artichokes and Roasted Red Peppers!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers for the best flavor. If you can, roast your own peppers for a smoky touch.
- Cook Couscous Perfectly: Make sure to follow the cooking instructions carefully. Fluffing the couscous after steaming helps prevent it from becoming gummy.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and flavor. Feta cheese or olives can also enhance the Mediterranean vibe.
- Let It Marinate: Allowing the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully. For an even richer taste, prepare it a few hours in advance and refrigerate.
- Adjust the Dressing: Tailor the lemon juice and olive oil to your taste. A splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a unique twist.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or even some toasted pine nuts on top can elevate the dish visually and add a delightful crunch.
- Serve It Your Way: This salad can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, making it versatile for any occasion!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg