Moroccan Couscous and Smokey-Paprika Honey Roasted Carrot Salad

May 17, 2023May 17, 20230 1
Moroccan Couscous and Smokey-Paprika Honey Roasted Carrot Salad
in Salad

Prep

15 min

Cook

25 min

Ready In

40 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

1 lb carrot ( cut on the diagonal in 1/2 ' pieces )
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon sweet smokey paprika
1 package feta cheese ( crumbled ) or ( 4 ounce ) package goat cheese ( crumbled )
8 -10 large medjool dates ( seeds removed and quartered on the long axis )
1 can garbanzo beans ( drained )
1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups vegetable stock
1 lemon ( reserved for juice )
1 tablespoon white sesame seeds
1 tablespoon black sesame seed
3/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves ( chopped )
sea salt
black pepper

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
4
Calories
495
Sugar
24g
Fat
17g
Moroccan Couscous and Smokey-Paprika Honey Roasted Carrot Salad is a colorful and vibrant salad that takes inspiration from Moroccan flavors and spices. It is a delicious salad that features tender, sweet, and slightly smoky roasted carrots dressed with honey, cinnamon, and paprika. The salad is tossed with cooked couscous, garbanzo beans, feta or goat cheese, and juicy dates to create a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Finished with a sprinkle of cilantro, sesame seeds, and lemon juice, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2.In a bowl, toss the carrots with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, honey, cinnamon, smokey paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Spread the coated carrot pieces onto a baking tray and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until slightly caramelized and soft.
3.Cook the couscous according to the package instructions, using vegetable stock instead of water, and set aside.
4.In a large bowl, mix the garbanzo beans, feta cheese or goat cheese, and quartered dates. Add the couscous and roasted carrots and stir gently to combine.
5.Add the chopped cilantro, sesame seeds, and remaining olive oil. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and toss one more time. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

PROS

This salad makes for a flavorful and explosive combination of sweet and savory flavors.
Perfect for brunches, light lunches, or summer barbecues.
It is packed with whole grains, vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein.

Also, it is a very versatile recipe that you can adapt to your preference by adding your favorite greens, nuts, seeds, or vegetables.

CONS

Although relatively healthy, this salad contains a moderate amount of calories and fat, making it a bit heavy for those watching their weight.
The cheeses and honey used can be high in sodium and sugars, which may not be ideal for those managing their blood pressure or blood sugar levels.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The ingredients used in this recipe are nutrient-dense and offer a variety of unique health benefits that can boost your well-being.

1. Carrots are rich in antioxidants, fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. They benefit eye health, skin health, digestion, and prevent chronic diseases.

2. Chickpeas or garbanzo beans are high in protein, fiber, iron, and folate. They promote heart health, weight management, and blood glucose regulation.

3. Dates are natural sweeteners that are high in antioxidants, fiber, and potassium. They boost brain function, digestion, and energy levels.

4. Couscous is a whole grain pasta that is lower in calories and higher in nutrients than traditional pasta. It supports gut health, weight loss, and overall health.

5. Cilantro is an herb that is used in many cuisines for its flavor and health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and may aid in detoxification and digestion.

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