Nectarine Couscous Salad

Ingredients

• 1 cup of uncooked couscous
• 2 cups of water
• 1 teaspoon of olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 2 nectarines, diced
• 1/2 cup of toasted slivered almonds
• 1/4 cup of dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup of fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the couscous, olive oil, and salt, stirring to combine. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 10 minutes or until the couscous is cooked but still has a slight bite.
2. Transfer the couscous to a large bowl and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.
3. Once cooled, add the nectarines, almonds, cranberries, parsley, and mint to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, and black pepper to make the dressing. Pour the dressing over the couscous and mix until everything is evenly coated.
5. Serve the salad at room temperature or chilled.

Interesting Facts

• Couscous is a traditional North African dish made from semolina, a type of wheat.
• Nectarines are a type of stone fruit with a sweet and juicy flavor.
• The combination of citrus, nuts, and dried fruit makes this salad a perfect Mediterranean-inspired dish.