Saturday, November 5, 2011

Couscous with Apples, Cranberries and Herbs

~from the kitchen of my beautiful wife~
Serves 4-6

Ingredients for Couscous:

2 cups couscous
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley 
1-1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
1 medium green apple, diced
1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted 

Ingredients for Vinaigrette:

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup olive oil

Directions:

For the couscous:  In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil on medium-high heat.  Add the couscous and cook, stirring occasionally until slightly browned and aromatic, about 3 to 5 minutes.  Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.  Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes or until the liquid has evaporated.  Transfer the cooked couscous to a large bowl and set aside to cool.  Add the parsley, rosemary, thyme, apple, dried cranberries, and almonds.  

For the vinaigrette:  In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.  Whisk in the olive oil until smooth.  Pour the vinaigrette over the couscous and toss to coat evenly.