Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Ingredients

• Couscous (1 cup)
• Vegetable broth (1 1/4 cups)
• Cucumber (1, diced)
• Tomatoes (2, diced)
• Red bell pepper (1, diced)
• Red onion (1/2, finely chopped)
• Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Fresh mint (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons)
• Lemon juice (2 tablespoons)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, add the couscous, stirring briefly to combine. Cover the pot, remove it from heat, and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
3. Fluff the couscous with a fork after 5 minutes and allow it to cool slightly.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled couscous with diced cucumber, tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and mint.
5. In a separate small bowl, prepare the vinaigrette by whisking together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
6. Pour the vinaigrette over the couscous salad and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
7. For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
8. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional herbs if desired.