Fresh Kiwi and Couscous Salad

Ingredients

• Couscous (1 cup)
• Water (1 1/4 cups)
• Kiwi (3, peeled and sliced)
• Cucumber (1, medium, diced)
• Red bell pepper (1, medium, diced)
• Red onion (1/2, thinly sliced)
• Fresh mint leaves (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Lemon juice (2 tablespoons)
• Olive oil (1/4 cup)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste)
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon, or to taste)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled couscous, sliced kiwi, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, sliced red onion, and chopped mint leaves.
3. To prepare the dressing, in a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad, and toss gently to combine everything well, ensuring that the dressing is evenly distributed.
5. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve the salad chilled. It pairs well with grilled fish or chicken for a light, balanced meal.