Easy to prepare,  cheap, hearty, low in fat,  the Morroccan seasoning and fruity yumminess give this flirty salad an exotic kick.  Perfect for a romantic picnic or summer barbeque. I paired it with grilled lamp chops one night, and a curried veal sausage another time.  

 

Ingredients

 

2 cups good stock (I used organic chicken stock)
3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
1 cup couscous
1 medium carrot, cut into 1/4 inch dice (or smaller)
1 small red onion, cut into 1/4 inch dice (or smaller)
1 small red bell pepper, cut into 1/4 inch dice (or smaller)
1 small cucumber or zucchini, cut into 1/4 inch dice
1 small Granny Smith apple, cut into 1/4 inch dice (or smaller)
1/3 cup currants or raisins (I used dried cranberries, from Quebec.)
1-2 cups canned chick peas, rinsed and drained (I used 1/1/2)
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

 

Directions

 

In a heavy medium saucepan, whisk together the stock, cinnamon, ginger, cumin, and turmeric. Add the couscous in a slow steady stream, stirring constantly, and continue to boil, stirring, for 1 minute. Cover the pot tightly, remove from the heat and let stand for 15 minutes.

 

Fluff the couscous grains with a fork, transfer to a large mixing bowl and let cool. Then fluff again, rubbing with your fingers to break up any lumps.

 

Add the carrot, bell pepper, cucumber, onion, apple, currants and chick peas and toss.

 

In a small jar with a lid, shake the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil with the lemon juice, salt and pepper until well mixed. Pour over the salad and toss well. Cover and refrigerate for several hours or up to 3 days. Season with additional salt, pepper and lemon juice to taste before serving.

 

From A Taste Of Catherine