Pearl Couscous with Zesty Lemon (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Couscous

01 - 2 tsp olive oil
02 - 1 garlic clove, minced
03 - 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 1 1/2 cups (250g) pearl couscous (gourmet or Israeli couscous)
05 - 1 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
06 - 1 cup water

→ Salad

07 - 2 cucumbers, diced (about 2 cups)
08 - 250g (8 oz) cherry tomatoes, halved (about 2 cups)
09 - 3 cups baby spinach, finely sliced
10 - 1/4 cup coriander (cilantro), finely chopped (or substitute with parsley)
11 - 1/4 cup dill, finely chopped

→ Lemon Dressing

12 - 2 tsp lemon zest
13 - 2 tbsp lemon juice
14 - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
15 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
16 - 1 garlic clove, minced
17 - 1 tsp sugar (optional)
18 - 3/4 tsp kosher salt
19 - 1/2 tsp black pepper

# Instructions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large saucepan or small pot over medium-high heat. Add garlic and onion, and sauté until the onion is translucent and starting to brown.
02 - Add couscous and stir, cooking for 1 minute. Add broth and water, bring to a simmer. Cover with a lid and lower the heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer.
03 - Cook for 10 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the couscous is cooked through but still firm. Use a fork to separate the grains, then transfer to a large bowl to cool.
04 - Place all dressing ingredients into a jar, seal, and shake well to combine.
05 - Combine salad ingredients in the bowl with couscous, pour the dressing over the top, and toss well to mix. Serve at room temperature.

# Notes:

01 - Pearl couscous is also known as Israeli couscous or gourmet couscous, featuring a soft yet chewy texture and a pearly surface.
02 - This versatile Mediterranean salad works great as a side dish or a standalone meal.