Spiced Cranberry Orange Couscous with Toasted Almonds and Fresh Mint

Ingredients

• •1 cup couscous
• •1 cup boiling water
• •1/2 cup dried cranberries
• •1 medium orange (zested and juiced)
• •1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• •1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• •1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• •1 tablespoon olive oil
• •1/4 cup slivered almonds (toasted)
• •2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves (chopped)
• •1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• •1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Instructions

1. 1

   In a medium heatproof bowl, combine the couscous and a pinch of salt. Pour the boiling water over the couscous, cover the bowl tightly with a lid or plate, and let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid.

2. 2

   While the couscous is resting, zest and juice the orange into a small saucepan. Add the dried cranberries, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger to the saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries begin to plump and soften.

3. 3

   Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains. Drizzle the olive oil over the couscous and toss gently to coat.

4. 4

   Pour the spiced orange and cranberry mixture over the couscous and mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.

5. 5

   Add the toasted slivered almonds, chopped fresh mint leaves, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Stir to combine, tasting and adjusting the seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed.

6. 6

   Serve the couscous warm as a side dish, or chill and serve as a refreshing salad. Garnish with additional mint leaves or orange zest, if desired.