African Couscous Salad Recipe

A vibrant and refreshing African couscous salad, perfect for a light lunch or a side dish. This recipe, inspired by Raley's magazine, features fluffy couscous tossed with toasted almonds, a zesty orange dressing, and your favorite fresh vegetables. Get ready for a flavor explosion in just 20 minutes (plus chilling time)!

Prep Time 25 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Calories 484.4 kcal
Protein 25g
Rating 4.3 (3 Reviews)
African Couscous Salad

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for African Couscous Salad

  • Chicken Broth
  • 1 cup couscous
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Green Onion
  • Dried Apricot
  • Golden Raisin
  • 1/2 cup slivered almonds
  • Oranges
  • 1/4 cup orange juice (Tangy Orange Dressing)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (Tangy Orange Dressing)
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (Tangy Orange Dressing)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (Tangy Orange Dressing)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (Tangy Orange Dressing)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (Tangy Orange Dressing)

How to Make African Couscous Salad

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1/2 cup slivered almonds on a baking sheet. Toast for 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown. (Alternatively, toast in a skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly).
  2. In a large saucepan, bring 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth to a boil.
  3. Stir in 1 cup couscous, 2 tablespoons butter, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
  4. Cover, remove from heat, and let stand for 5 minutes.
  5. Fluff the couscous with a fork and let cool completely.
  6. While the couscous cools, prepare the remaining ingredients: 1 cup chopped cucumber, 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper, 1/2 cup chopped red onion, 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional).
  7. In a large bowl, combine the cooled couscous, toasted almonds, and prepared vegetables.
  8. Drizzle with the Tangy Orange Dressing (recipe below) and toss gently to combine.
  9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
  10. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Small additions can make a big impact! Try a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of your favorite spice blend, or a squeeze of citrus just before serving to really enhance the flavors of your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

21 g

Sugar

81g

Fat

13g

Carbs

25g