Ingredients

1 1/2 cups instant couscous
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt , plus more to taste
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper , plus more to taste
1 cup finely chopped fresh parsley leaves , plus 6 sprigs
1 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves
6 tablespoons olive oil
4 spicy grilled chicken breasts
3 fresh apricots , pitted and cut into bite-size chunks ( or ripe nectarines , peaches , or plums )
1 small shallot , thinly sliced in rings
1/2 cup unsalted pistachio nuts , shelled
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Couscous salad is a popular Mediterranean dish that is enjoyed in various countries. This recipe combines the exotic flavors of Moroccan cuisine with healthy ingredients that nourish your body. The couscous is cooked with a blend of spices, chopped herbs, and olive oil to infuse it with a unique flavor that complements the grilled spicy chicken and fresh apricots perfectly. This colorful and tasty couscous salad is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed as an entree or a side dish any time of the day.

Instructions

1.Pour the instant couscous into a large heat-proof bowl.
2.In a separate bowl, whisk together the cinnamon, cumin, salt, black pepper, parsley, mint, and 4 tablespoons olive oil.
3.Add the spice mixture to the couscous along with 1 1/2 cups boiling water. Stir with a fork until the couscous is completely covered in liquid and clumps form.
4.Cover the bowl with a plate and let sit for 5 minutes.
5.Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and grill until cooked through, about 3 minutes on each side.
6.Once the couscous has rested for 5 minutes, remove the plate and fluff the couscous with a fork. Add the sliced apricots, shallots, and pistachio nuts to the bowl. Toss until everything is evenly distributed and coated with the spice mixture.
7.Drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving.

PROS

This couscous salad is packed with healthy protein, vitamins, and fiber from the chicken, apricots, and nuts.

The spices and herbs give it an exotic flavor that is sure to impress your taste buds.

CONS

Couscous can be high in carbohydrates, so it is important to watch your portion sizes.

This recipe calls for olive oil and nuts, which are high in calories and fat.
However, they are healthy fats that can support heart health when eaten in moderation.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Couscous is a low-fat, low-calorie grain that is high in fiber and protein.
The chicken provides essential protein that supports muscle growth and repair.
The apricots are rich in vitamin A, which supports healthy skin and eyes, while the pistachios are high in healthy fats that support heart health and reduce inflammation.

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