We are in the thick of summer, the perfect time for picnics and cookouts.  Are you looking for a different side dish to serve your family or to share with friends?  Cucumber Mint Couscous is good and different with a the tang of a lemon dressing combined with the sweet of chopped mint.  I made this dish to share with friends at a picnic this weekend and it was well received.

Cucumber Mint Couscous

A printable recipe is below!

Salad Preparation

The recipe calls for two cups of uncooked plain couscous.  My local grocery store only carries couscous is prepackaged boxes.  I discovered that each box contains 1 1/2 cups, so I’m glad that I bought two of them.

 

The couscous is combined with 1 tsp salt and mixed with 2 1/4 cups of boiling water.  After stirring it together, cover it for 5 to 8 minutes or until the water has been absorbed.

 

Fluff the couscous with a fork.  Let it cool for 10 minutes.

 

Seed and chop two cucumbers to yield two cups.  Chop 1/2 cup of fresh mint.

 

Add the cucumber, mint, and 1/2 tsp. salt to the couscous.

Dressing Preparation

For the dressing, combine 1 tsp lemon zest, 2 T. fresh lemon juice, 1/2 tsp. sugar and 1/4 tsp pepper in a small bowl.  Whisk in 1/3 cup EVOO.

Pour over couscous mixture and toss gently to combine.  This dish can be served chilled or at room temperature.

 

A garnish of mint is a pretty added touch.

Yield: 6-8

Cucumber Mint Couscous

Print

Ingredients

• 2 cups uncooked plain couscous
• 1 1/2 tsp salt, divided
• 2 1/4 cups boiling water
• 2 cups chopped seedless cucumber
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 T lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• Garnish: fresh mint sprig

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine couscous and 1 tsp salt. Pour boiling water over couscous. Cover, and let stand until liquid is absorbed, about 5 to 8 minutes. Fluff couscous with a fork. Let cool for 10 minutes.

Add remaining 1/2 tsp salt, cucumber, and mint.

In a small bowl combine lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, and pepper; whisk in olive oil. Pour over couscous mixture; toss gently to combine.

Spoon into a serving bowl. Serve at room temperature or chilled. Garnish with fresh mint, if desired.