Citrus Apricot Couscous

If you can’t take a vacation to Morrocco, your tastebuds can with this citrus apricot couscous recipe. Couscous is more exciting than pasta because it’s a change of pace from the usual. Also, it just tastes darn good. The texture of the small grains makes couscous the perfect foundation to dress with tangy fruits. Try this recipe, and you’ll be hooked! You may even become adventurous and add other favorites, like pineapple or raisins.

Servings: 2
Serving Size: 1/3 cup
Volume: 2/3 cup
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
¼ cup whole wheat couscous
2/3 cup boiling water
1 tablespoon orange juice
2 tablespoons dried apricots, chopped
1 teaspoon grated orange zest

Directions
Place couscous in a medium-size oven-safe bowl. Pour boiling water over the couscous and then add the orange juice, apricots, and orange zest. Stir, then cover and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff the mixture with a fork and serve immediately.

Variation: Substitute lemon juice and zest for orange juice and zest.

Why We Love It
It’s true that a Mediterranean diet is one of the most healthful ways to eat. Thankfully, it’s also far from bland, especially with this recipe’s notes of citrus and sweet apricot. Not only is couscous a delicious and healthy grain, it cooks fast enough for those super-rushed dinners.