Whole Wheat Couscous Salad

This dish is a real crowd pleaser. The nutty couscous pairs well with the sweet dried fruits. It makes a great side dish. You can also add chicken or garbanzo beans to up the protein and make it a main dish.

Serves 8

Serving Size: ½ cup as side dish, ¾ cup as main dish

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

1 cup whole-wheat couscous, cooked to package directions

6 dried apricot halves, chopped

6 dried dates, chopped

6 dried figs, chopped

¼ cup pistachios

1 orange, cut into segments

1 cup chopped herbs, any combination (basil, parsley, mint, cilantro)

¼ cup balsamic vinegar  

1-2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl. 

2. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information per Serving:

(Based on 1½ tablespoons olive oil and 1 cup chopped basil)

Serving Size: ½ cup, side dish

Vegetables: 0 cups

Fruits: ¼ cup

Calories: 127 calories

Carbohydrates: 23 grams

Fiber: 3 grams

Protein: 2 grams

Fat: 4 grams

Sodium: 5 mg