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As the warm rays of summer approach, so does the craving for refreshing, light meals that nourish the body without weighing it down. Summer salads are a perfect solution, offering a palette of vibrant flavors and textures that celebrate the season's bounty. One standout recipe that embodies this concept is the Chilled Chickpea Couscous Delight. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also brimming with wholesome ingredients that cater to diverse dietary preferences.

Cold Chickpea Couscous Bowl

Discover the perfect summer dish with this Chilled Chickpea Couscous Delight! This vibrant salad combines fluffy couscous, protein-packed chickpeas, and a rainbow of fresh vegetables for a refreshing and nutritious meal. With a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing, it’s easy to prepare and ideal for gatherings, picnics, or a quick lunch. Enjoy a healthy option that caters to various dietary preferences while impressing your friends and family with its delightful flavors.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup couscous

1 ½ cups vegetable broth (or water)

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium cucumber, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

½ red onion, finely chopped

1 avocado, diced

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

¼ cup fresh mint, chopped

Juice of 1 lemon

3 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Feta cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions
 

Cook the Couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth (or water) to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, stir in the couscous, remove the pan from heat, and cover it with a lid. Let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed. Afterward, fluff the couscous with a fork and spread it out on a plate to cool to room temperature.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the couscous is cooling, take the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and avocado, and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Place all the chopped vegetables into a large mixing bowl, mixing gently to combine.

      Combine Ingredients: Add the rinsed and drained chickpeas to the bowl with vegetables. Then, incorporate the fluffed couscous, followed by the freshly chopped parsley and mint. Mix everything gently to ensure even distribution.

        Dress the Salad: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a zesty dressing. Drizzle this mixture over the couscous and vegetable medley, and toss gently yet thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is coated with the dressing.

          Chill and Serve: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, dish out the salad into individual bowls and if desired, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese for an added creamy taste.

            Enjoy: This refreshing Chickpea Couscous Delight is not only perfect for meal prep but also makes a light and vibrant dish ideal for summer dining.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hr | 4 servings