Couscous Salad with Raisins and Pine Nuts

Ingredients

• 1 cup wheat couscous
• 1.25 cups water
• 0.5 cup raisins
• 0.25 cup pine nuts
• 1 cup cucumber
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 0.5 cup green onions
• 0.25 cup mint
• 0.25 cup parsley
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. 1Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. 2Add the whole wheat couscous to the boiling water, stir once, and remove from heat. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes.
3. 3Fluff the couscous with a fork and transfer to a large mixing bowl to cool.
4. 4While the couscous is cooling, toast the pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat until golden, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
5. 5Chop the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, scallions, fresh mint, and fresh parsley.
6. 6Add the chopped vegetables, herbs, raisins, and toasted pine nuts to the cooled couscous.
7. 7In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
8. 8Pour the dressing over the couscous mixture and toss to combine.
9. 9Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
10. 10Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
11. 11Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional fresh herbs.
12. 12Enjoy your nutrient-rich Couscous Salad with Raisins and Pine Nuts.