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Ingredients
• 1 cup couscous
• 1 zucchini, sliced and grilled
• 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- In a medium saucepan, bring 1 1/4 cups of water to a boil.
- Stir in the couscous, cover with a lid, and remove from heat. Let stand for 5 minutes.
- After 5 minutes, fluff the couscous gently with a fork to separate the grains.
- Transfer the couscous to a large mixing bowl and allow it to cool slightly.
- While the couscous is cooling, grill the zucchini slices until tender and slightly charred.
- Chop the grilled zucchini into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl with the couscous.
- Add the chopped roasted red peppers and halved Kalamata olives to the couscous mixture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the lemon-herb vinaigrette.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the couscous and vegetables and toss until everything is well coated.
- Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
- Refrigerate the couscous salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top of the couscous salad.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your preference.
Q1: Can I use a different type of grain instead of couscous for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can easily substitute couscous with quinoa, bulgur, or farro for a different texture and flavor profile.
Q2: How long can I store the Mediterranean Vegetable Couscous in the refrigerator?
A2: The couscous salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the flavors.
Q3: Can I add some protein to this dish, like grilled chicken or chickpeas?
A3: Absolutely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even tofu can be added to this recipe to make it a complete and satisfying meal. Simply grill or cook the protein of your choice separately and toss it with the couscous salad before serving.
