Vietnamese Couscous Salad Recipes

COOL COUSCOUS SALAD

Steps:

• Make the couscous according to the directions. Uncover and fluff with a fork. Transfer the couscous to a large bowl and let cool.
• To the couscous, add the artichoke quarters, cherry tomatoes, scallion, chickpeas, cucumber and mint.
• Remove the breasts from the roast chicken - reserve the rest of the chicken for another use. Remove skin and cut the breasts into small pieces. Add the chicken to the couscous.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved lemon juice, olive oil and the reserved artichoke liquid. Season with salt, pepper, and a little cayenne pepper, to taste. Pour this dressing over the couscous mixture and toss lightly to combine.

COUSCOUS SALAD WITH HONEY VINAIGRETTE

Steps:

• Bring 4 cups water and 1 teaspoon salt to a boil. Gradually add the couscous. Return to a boil and let cook for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat, cover, and let stand for 3 minutes.
• Meanwhile, in a saute pan, heat the olive oil. Add cubed squash. Season with salt and pepper. Saute, stirring often, for about 4 minutes, or until caramelized and crispy. Add the fresh lemon thyme and set aside.
• In a small saucepan, heat the honey and vinegar until just warm. Whisk in olive oil and season with salt and twist of pepper. Remove from the heat, and add the raisins. Fluff the couscous with a fork.
• Place the arugula in a serving bowl. Toss with the warm squash, couscous, cucumber and 2 tablespoons of the toasted almonds. Add enough dressing to coat the salad. Season with salt and pepper, and top with the remaining 1 tablespoon of almonds.