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Moroccan Couscous Salad Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines the essence of North African cuisine with a modern twist, look no further than Moroccan Couscous Salad. Bursting with flavour, colour, and texture, this salad is perfect as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a stunning addition to a picnic spread. Best of all, it can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or spontaneous gatherings.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Moroccan Couscous Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 250g couscous
• 300ml boiling vegetable stock
• 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
• 1 large cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 150g cherry tomatoes, halved
• 100g canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 100g raisins or sultanas
• Fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
• Fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves, roughly chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 4 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Couscous: In a large bowl, combine the couscous and boiling vegetable stock. Cover the bowl with a plate or cling film and let it stand for about 5 minutes, allowing the couscous to absorb the liquid.

2. Fluff the Couscous: After 5 minutes, use a fork to fluff the couscous, breaking up any clumps. This will help create a light and airy texture.

3. Mix the Vegetables: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped red onion, diced cucumber, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, and raisins. These colourful ingredients will add a medley of flavour and crunch to the salad.

4. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This zesty dressing will tie all the flavours together and impart a warm Moroccan essence to the dish.

5. Combine Everything: Add the mixed vegetables to the fluffed couscous. Drizzle over the dressing and add the fresh mint and coriander. Toss everything gently until well combined, ensuring each ingredient is evenly coated with the dressing.

6. Taste and Adjust: Give your salad a taste, and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add more lemon juice, salt, or pepper, depending on your preference.

7. Serve: Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving, as this will help the flavours meld together beautifully. Serve it at room temperature or slightly chilled, garnished with extra fresh herbs if desired.

Variations

This Moroccan Couscous Salad is highly versatile. You can interchange ingredients based on what’s in season or your personal preferences. Consider adding:

• Roasted vegetables: Carrots, courgettes, or even sweet potatoes can enhance the flavour.
• Nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts add a delightful crunch.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled feta can introduce a creamy element that complements the other ingredients.
• Avocado: For an extra layer of creaminess and healthy fats.

Conclusion

In just half an hour, you can create a Moroccan Couscous Salad that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. The combination of wholesome ingredients, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs ensures that each bite is a burst of deliciousness. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as a side dish, this salad is sure to become a favourite in your meal rotation. So, gather your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and savour the flavours of Morocco right in your own home!

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