Couscous with Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Recipe – A Healthy Mediterranean Delight

Are you looking for a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer? Look no further than this delicious Couscous with Smoked Salmon and Cucumber recipe! This recipe combines the nutty flavors of couscous with the smoky richness of salmon and the crisp freshness of cucumber.

While exploring our wide range of Mediterranean dishes, don’t miss out on this enticing concoction featuring a delightful blend of exotic ingredients, making it an equally healthy and delicious choice.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Couscous with Smoked Salmon and Cucumber recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup of Pearl Couscous
• 8 ounces of smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• 1 large cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup of fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup of red onion, finely chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the preparation process for this mouthwatering dish:

Step 1

Cooking the Pearl Couscous

Start by cooking the Pearl Couscous according to the instructions on the package. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the couscous. Cook it for about 8-10 minutes or until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the couscous and set it aside to cool.

Step 2

Assembling the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled couscous, smoked salmon, diced cucumber, chopped dill, and finely chopped red onion. Toss them gently to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.

Step 3

Dressing the Salad

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this dressing over the couscous mixture and toss everything together until well coated.

Step 4

Serving and Enjoying

Transfer the Couscous with Smoked Salmon and Cucumber salad to a serving platter or individual plates. You can garnish it with additional dill sprigs for added freshness and visual appeal. Serve it chilled and enjoy!

Nutritional Benefits of this Recipe

Indulging in the Couscous with Smoked Salmon and Cucumber recipe not only delights your taste buds but also offers a range of nutritional benefits. Let’s explore the health advantages of this flavorful dish:

Lean Protein from Smoked Salmon

Smoked salmon is a rich source of lean protein, which plays a crucial role in building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and promoting satiety. It is also packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and potential cardiovascular benefits.

Fiber and Antioxidants from Pearl Couscous

Pearl Couscous, the star ingredient of this recipe, provides a good amount of dietary fiber. Fiber aids in digestion helps regulate blood sugar levels and promotes feelings of fullness. Pearl couscous also contains antioxidants, which combat harmful free radicals and support overall health.

Hydration and Vitamins from Cucumber

Cucumber, a hydrating vegetable, contributes to the refreshing nature of this dish. It is low in calories and high in water content, helping to keep you hydrated. Cucumber is also a good source of vitamins such as vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium, which are essential for maintaining healthy bones, immune function, and electrolyte balance.

Vitamins and Minerals from Fresh Herbs

The addition of fresh dill in this recipe offers a boost of flavor as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Dill contains vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. These nutrients contribute to maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and aiding in oxygen transportation throughout the body.

Tips and Variations

Now that you know how to prepare this delectable dish, here are a few additional tips and variations to enhance your culinary experience:

Secrets of Preparation: When cooking the Pearl Couscous, make sure to follow the package instructions precisely to achieve the perfect texture. Overcooking can result in a mushy consistency while undercooking may leave it too hard.

Proper Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad will keep well for up to 2 days, but the flavors may intensify over time, so adjust the seasonings accordingly when serving.

Elevate Your Dish with Flavorful Accompaniments

Enhance the flavors of your Couscous with Smoked Salmon and Cucumber recipe by pairing it with these delectable accompaniments:

Herbed Yogurt Sauce: Prepare a tangy and refreshing herbed yogurt sauce to complement the dish. Simply mix Greek yogurt with chopped fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and mint. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Toasted Pita Bread: Serve your Couscous with Smoked Salmon and Cucumber alongside warm and crispy toasted pita bread. Cut the pita into triangles and lightly brush them with olive oil. Toast them in a preheated oven until golden and crispy.

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables make an excellent side dish to accompany this couscous salad. Toss colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast them in the oven until they become tender and slightly caramelized.

Grilled Asparagus: Grilled asparagus is another fantastic accompaniment for this dish. Lightly brush fresh asparagus spears with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill them over medium heat until they develop grill marks and become tender-crisp.

Elevate Your Dish with Pearl Couscous

To take your Couscous with Smoked Salmon and Cucumber recipe to the next level, make sure to use Pearl Couscous. This high-quality product adds a delightful texture and flavor to your dish.

With its premium ingredients and careful processing, pearl couscous guarantees a result that will impress even the most discerning palates. Don’t miss the opportunity to enhance your cooking with this exceptional ingredient. You can find it here: https://riceselect.com/product/riceselect-pearl-couscous.

This Couscous with Smoked Salmon and Cucumber recipe is a fantastic choice for a light and refreshing meal. The combination of nutty couscous, smoky salmon, and fresh cucumber creates a harmonious blend of flavors. Remember to use couscous for that extra touch of excellence.

Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply want to enjoy a delicious homemade meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite among food lovers everywhere!