Best 2 Mediterranean Couscous And Lentil Salad Recipes
Calling all veggie enthusiasts! Dive into the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with our couscous and lentil salad. A delightful symphony of textures and colors, this dish is a symphony of fresh, healthy ingredients. With crunchy bell peppers, juicy cucumber, sweet cherry tomatoes, briny olives, tender lentils, and fluffy couscous, this salad sings with each bite. Drenched in a zesty lemon-tahini dressing, this salad bursts with tangy, nutty goodness. And to top it off, a sprinkling of fresh herbs adds a final touch of aromatic bliss. So, ready your taste buds for a journey across the Mediterranean. Our recipe guide offers three variations: a classic vegan option, a protein-packed version with grilled chicken, and a seafood extravaganza with succulent shrimp. Grab your apron and let's get cooking!
**Classic Vegan Mediterranean Couscous and Lentil Salad**
Our classic vegan option showcases the natural goodness of plant-based ingredients. Tender lentils provide a hearty base, while fresh vegetables add a symphony of flavors and textures. Dressed with a zesty lemon-tahini sauce, this salad is a satisfying meal that will leave you feeling nourished and energized.
**Mediterranean Couscous and Lentil Salad with Grilled Chicken**
Craving a protein boost? Our grilled chicken version is here to satisfy your hunger. Perfectly grilled chicken breast adds a succulent touch to the salad, making it a complete meal. The combination of lean protein, healthy grains, and fresh vegetables creates a well-balanced dish that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
**Mediterranean Couscous and Lentil Salad with Shrimp**
Seafood lovers, prepare to be amazed! Our Mediterranean couscous and lentil salad with shrimp is a delightful treat. Plump, juicy shrimp are cooked to perfection and tossed with the flavorful salad. The briny taste of the shrimp complements the tangy dressing and fresh vegetables, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
MEDITERRANEAN COUSCOUS AND LENTIL SALAD
Steps:
- In a small saucepan simmer lentils in water to cover by 2 inches until tender but not falling apart, 15 to 20 minutes, and drain well. Transfer hot lentils to a bowl and stir in 1 tablespoon vinegar and salt and pepper to taste. Cool lentils completely, stirring occasionally.
- In a saucepan bring water to a boil and add couscous and salt. Remove pan from heat and let couscous stand, covered, 5 minutes. Fluff couscous with a fork and transfer to a large bowl. Stir in 1 tablespoon oil and cool completely, stirring occasionally.
- In a small bowl whisk together garlic paste, remaining 2 tablespoons vinegar, remaining 3 tablespoons oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir lentils and dressing into couscous. Chill salad, covered, at least 3 hours and up to 24.
- Just before serving, stir in remaining ingredients and season with salt and pepper.
LENTIL AND COUSCOUS SALAD
This is great for a picnic or barbecue. Use the indigo lentils that they sell in bulk containers at Wild Oats, Whole Foods type markets if you can find them. Recipe was originally in the Boston Globe many years ago but I've changed it a bit over the years.
Provided by Cookie16
Categories Lentil
Time 35m
Yield 8 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Combine red onion, lemon juice and vinegar in large bowl with a pinch of salt.
- Put lentils and 4 cups of water in pot and bring to boil then simmer for 20 minutes or til lentils are soft.
- Take off heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Drain and add to onion mixture along with the 1/3 cup of olive oil.
- Toss well.
- Bring 1 cup of water to boil, add couscous, take off heat, cover and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Fluff up the couscous by raking with a fork and adding slowly the 1 T of olive oil. Try to get rid of the clumps.
- Add the couscous to the lentil mixture along with the parsley, mint and scallions.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 214.5, Fat 11, SaturatedFat 1.5, Sodium 10.9, Carbohydrate 24, Fiber 3.6, Sugar 1.2, Protein 5.4
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The fresher and more flavorful your ingredients are, the better your salad will be. Look for ripe vegetables, fresh herbs, and flavorful lentils.
- Cook the lentils properly: Lentils should be cooked until they are tender but still hold their shape. Overcooked lentils will become mushy and ruin the texture of your salad.
- Don't overdress the salad: A little bit of dressing goes a long way. Too much dressing will weigh down the salad and make it soggy.
- Let the salad chill before serving: This will allow the flavors to meld and the salad to become more refreshing.
- Garnish the salad with fresh herbs: This will add a pop of color and flavor to your salad.
Conclusion:
This Mediterranean couscous and lentil salad is a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. It is packed with flavor and nutrition, and it is sure to please everyone at your table. So next time you are looking for a quick and easy meal, give this salad a try. You won't be disappointed!
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