What exactly is couscous?
Contrary to popular belief, couscous is neither a grain nor a seed, it’s a form of pasta made from a dry mixture of semolina and water.
Couscous is a popular North African dish, it was also enjoyed across the world for centuries due to its unique flavour & health benefits.
Top health benefits of couscous?
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Couscous is a useful source of fibre, vitamins & minerals, including immune-supportive selenium
- It is low in fat & calories, which helps with weight loss
- Couscous has anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce the risk of heart disease & diabetes https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/couscous-benefits
Ingredients:
Couscous
1 Cup Water
1 cup pearl Couscous
1/2 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
Salad
1/2 cup diced roma tomato
1/2 cup diced Lebanese cucumber, seeds removed
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup garbanzo beans, drained & rinsed
1/4 cup minced red onion
1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced
2 tablespoons feta cheese
1 teaspoon chopped parsley
1 teaspoon chopped mint
1 teaspoon chopped basil
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Lemon Dressing
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Directions:
- Bring water, salt & olive oil to the boil in a medium saucepan. Add couscous & stir, simmer for 10 minutes until waters absorbed, take off heat & let cool.
- Combine the couscous & all the salad ingredients in a medium bowl.
- Whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, & pepper in a small bowl. Drizzle in the olive oil & whisk until a thickened dressing forms. Pour dressing over the couscous salad, stir to combine.
Summary:
Couscous is a delicious, nutritious, & versatile dish with a long, rich history.
It can make an excellent addition to any meal, offering health benefits as well as flavour. https://www.nutritionalhealthenterprises.com/health-benefits-of-a-mediterranean-diet/
A healthier alternative to white rice, is easy to prepare & used in a variety of dishes.
Enjoy!!