Thursday, March 15, 2012

a staple


cranberry.apple couscous salad

I believe a friend originally introduced me to this recipe and it's become one of our family favorites.  It's lite and flavorful, with the apples and nuts adding a nice texture contrast.  It's a crowd pleasure and makes for a great side that everyone will enjoy .

You can find the original recipe here.

Some ideas and modifications I've tried:
  • use walnuts instead of almonds
  • add a squeeze of lemon juice to the dressing
  • use farro or quinoa instead of couscous (cooking liquid will have to be adjusted)
  • add a handful of chopped spinach 
  • make it a main dish by adding some chicken 
  • use dried herbs if I don't have fresh 
  • eat the leftovers over a bed of spinach or mixed greens for a lite lunch

5 comments:

  1. heather--i LOVE your cooking! living with you in college changed the way i eat! i'll be following this blog too! :)

    ReplyDelete
  2. thanks leah! you just made my day :) and I wish I could same more of your cooking b/c I have no doubt it's Excellent!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Love this idea :) saw the above recipe is from food network... E & I menu plan from their magazine for 6 of our 7 week meals (leaving one night for pizza of course) HIGHLY recommend it if you haven't already checked it out... We love it

    ReplyDelete
  4. Good idea Ris! I've looked at their magazine some and love their food.. you always know the recipe will turn out great! I'm not great at meal planning and should try harder. And of course you have to leave a night free for pizza. :)

    ReplyDelete
  5. I just wanted to comment to say I was the "friend who introduced you." :) I do love this recipe and it's just as good with quinoa and it's healthier! I'm excited to read your food blog now that I found it!

    ReplyDelete