Are you craving a vibrant, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal that's ready in minutes? Then look no further! This Tabbouleh with Couscous recipe is your answer. It's a delightful twist on the classic Tabbouleh, incorporating fluffy couscous for a heartier and more satisfying dish. Perfect for a light lunch, a healthy dinner, or a vibrant side dish at your next gathering, this easy recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Get ready to experience a burst of Mediterranean sunshine on your plate!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes a generous serving for 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 ½ cups boiling vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 large bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped (about 2 cups)
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- 1 large tomato, finely diced
- ½ cup finely chopped red onion
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup chopped cucumber (optional, adds refreshing crunch)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Couscous
Pour the boiling vegetable broth over the couscous in a medium bowl. Cover the bowl with a plate or plastic wrap and let it sit for 5-7 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the couscous is fluffy. Fluff with a fork to separate the grains.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked couscous, chopped parsley, mint, tomato, red onion, and optional cucumber.
Step 3: Dress it Up
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional dill. Pour the dressing over the couscous and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best taste! Serve chilled as a refreshing salad or side dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Tabbouleh:
- Fresh Herbs are Key: The quality of your herbs significantly impacts the flavor of your Tabbouleh. Use the freshest parsley and mint you can find.
- Don't Over-Process: Finely chop your vegetables, but avoid pulsing them in a food processor. You want to maintain some texture.
- Adjust the Lemon Juice: The amount of lemon juice can be adjusted to your preference. Taste and add more if you like a tangier flavor.
- Add Some Spice: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Variations:
- Add Protein: Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or crumbled feta cheese make excellent additions to this recipe.
- Different Grains: Instead of couscous, you can use quinoa or bulgur wheat for a similar texture and nutritional profile.
- Citrus Twist: Try adding a little orange zest along with the lemon juice for a brighter, more complex flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This delicious and healthy Tabbouleh with Couscous recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes that won’t compromise on taste or nutrition. Enjoy this homemade cooking masterpiece! It's a truly delightful and refreshing dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!