roasted cauliflower and couscous salad recipe 

Elevate your salad game with this vibrant and flavorful Roasted Cauliflower and Couscous Salad! This innovative recipe combines the tender, caramelized goodness of roasted cauliflower with the light, fluffy texture of couscous, all tied together with a tangy and refreshing lemon-tahini dressing.

Perfect for a healthy lunch, dinner, or as a side dish for your next gathering, this salad is a masterful blend of textures, flavors, and nutrients. The roasted cauliflower adds a satisfying crunch and a boost of vitamins, while the couscous provides a comforting and filling base. With its easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and impressive presentation, this Roasted Cauliflower and Couscous Salad is sure to become a new favorite!

prep time: 15 minutes

cook time: 25 minutes

total time: 40 minutes

servings: 2-4

ingredients:

for the salad:

1. 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
3. 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
4. 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
5. Salt and pepper, to taste
6. 1 cup cooked pearl couscous
7. 1/4 cup golden raisins
8. 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
9.  1/4 cup sliced red onion
10.  2 cups mixed greens or romaine lettuce

for the dressing:

1. 3 tablespoons olive oil
2. 2 tablespoons lemon juice
3. 1 teaspoon honey
4. 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
5. Salt and pepper, to taste

instructions:

1. roast the cauliflower:
preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender and slightly charred.

2. prepare the dressing:
in a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. assemble the salad:
in a large bowl, layer mixed greens or romaine lettuce, cooked couscous, roasted cauliflower, golden raisins, red onion slices, and fresh parsley.

4. add the dressing:
drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

5. serve:
enjoy immediately as a flavorful and hearty meal or side dish.

Tips and Variations_

1. _Roasting brings out the best_: Roasting cauliflower enhances its natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor. Experiment with different roasting times and temperatures for varying levels of caramelization.

2. _Customize your couscous_: Try using different types of couscous, such as whole wheat or tri-color, for added texture and nutrition.

3. _Add some crunch_: Incorporate chopped nuts or seeds, like almonds or pumpkin seeds, for added crunch and nutrition.

4. _Make it a meal_: Add some grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu for a protein-packed meal.

5. _Dressing variations_: Experiment with different dressings, such as a lemon-vinaigrette or a creamy yogurt-based sauce, to find your favorite flavor combination.

_Nutritional Information (per serving)_

– Calories: 320

– Protein: 10g

– Fat: 10g

– Saturated Fat: 1.5g

– Cholesterol: 0mg

– Carbohydrates: 45g

– Fiber: 8g

– Sugar: 5g

– Sodium: 200mg