Mediterranean Couscous

Mediterranean Couscous is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of the Mediterranean right to your table. With its fluffy couscous, colorful vegetables, and zesty dressing, it's a delightful snack that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients

• Couscous - 1 cup (160 grams)
• Water - 1 1/4 cups (300 ml)
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
• Cherry tomatoes - 1/2 cup (75 grams), halved
• Cucumber - 1/2 medium (100 grams), diced
• Red bell pepper - 1/2 medium (75 grams), diced
• Red onion - 1/4 medium (40 grams), finely chopped
• Parsley - 1/4 cup (15 grams), chopped
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 grams)
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon (1 gram)
• Feta cheese - 1/4 cup (40 grams), crumbled (optional)
• Chickpeas - 1/2 cup (120 grams), rinsed and drained (optional)

Steps

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 1 1/4 cups of water to a boil.
2. Add 1 cup of couscous and stir. Remove from heat, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. After 5 minutes, fluff the couscous with a fork and set aside to cool slightly.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
6. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
7. Add the fluffed couscous to the vegetable mixture and gently mix until well combined.
8. If desired, fold in the crumbled feta cheese and chickpeas.
9. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbs: 45 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Cholesterol: 15 mg
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in fiber, promoting digestive health.
• Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables.
• Provides a good source of plant-based protein from chickpeas.

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