Spiced Israeli Couscous Salad
with Sun-dried Tomatoes & Goat Cheese
By Debbie Kornberg
Serves 4 - 8
Ingredients:
2 Tbsp. + 1 Tbsp. SPICE + LEAF Galili Olive Oil divided
2 cups Israeli couscous
1 Tbsp. + 1 tsp. SPICE + LEAF Espresso BBQ Rub
2 cups water
3 Tbsp. SPICE + LEAF 18 Year Aged Dark Balsamic Vinegar
1/2 lemon, squeezed
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped coarsely
2 cups tightly packed kale, chopped coarsely
1/4 cup red onion, chopped finely
1/2 cup Italian parsley, chopped coarsely
1/2 tsp. + 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted at 350° until golden, about 5 minutes
1/3 cup goat cheese, crumbled (If vegan can use avocado)
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Instructions:
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Heat 2 Tbsp. olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until hot. Add couscous and cook, stirring frequently until most of the grains are golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add 1 Tbsp. SPICE + LEAF Espresso BBQ Rub. Mix in well. Then add 2 cups water and still well again so there is no clumping of the couscous. The water should automatically boil when adding it to the couscous. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer stirring occasionally, until water is absorbed and grains are al dente, 7 to 9 minutes.
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Once the water has fully been absorbed into the couscous, transfer couscous to a large bowl. Add SPICE + LEAF balsamic vinegar and stir well. Add remaining 1 tsp. of SPICE + LEAF Espresso BBQ Rub plus salt and mix well. Then add red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, kale, parsley, and pine nuts. Add lemon juice and mix well. If needed, add the remaining 1 Tbsp. olive oil. Mix well. Toss well. Sprinkle goat cheese on top. Refrigerate until serving. MAKE AHEAD: Salad may be refrigerated overnight.
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