In the world of herbs, parsley, basil and cilantro are some of the big stars. These “cool kids” lend their recognizable flavors to a wide variety of cuisines, but can sometimes overshadow other lesser known herbs. I would venture to say that dill is among these overlooked, not so cool other herbs. However, this under-appreciated herb on the fringe is truly a diamond in the rough. Behind its delicate and shy little leaves is an herb that can add a punch of flavor to all sorts of dishes.
Determined to introduce dill to a wider circle of friends, I recently made it the star of a salad we took to a pot-luck. While the dill in my salad did not have the bold pizzazz that basil and parsley can have, it won over the crowd with its more subtle charm. In my book, the light and refreshing flavor of dill is definitely worth befriending and bringing into the inner circle of your herb repertoire.
Delicious Dill and Israeli Couscous Salad
Unfortunately I did not measure out the ingredients for the vinaigrette that I poured over the salad. I’ve read that the perfect ratio of oil to vinegar in vinaigrette is 3 to 1, so I’ve used those measurements below. You may not need the full amount of vinaigrette for the salad though.
Salad:
- 1 1/3 cups dry Israeli couscous
- 1 basket cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- ½ cup diced green onions
- 1 cup cooked garbanzo beans
- 1 small bunch of dill (3-4 tablespoons chopped)
- Salt and pepper
Vinaigrette:
- 2 shallots, finely minced
- ¾ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey mustard
- Salt and pepper
Prepare the Israeli couscous according to the directions on the package. While the couscous cools, mix together the ingredients for the vinaigrette in a small bowl.
In a large bowl, mix together the couscous, vegetables, and garbanzo beans. Carefully fold in the dill and pour in the vinaigrette. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Tasty Easy Healthy Green Recipe Ratings:
| Recipe Report Card | Notes About Recipe Ratings |
|
Tasty Rating
Four Chefs (Delicious!) |
This light and refreshing salad is perfect for the unseasonably warm fall days we are experiencing around here. |
|
Easy Rating
Four Easy Chairs (“ABC, Easy as 123…”) |
This salad comes together pretty quickly and the ingredients can be modified based on what you have on hand. |
|
Healthy Rating
Four Apples (Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise) |
Although Israeli couscous is not a whole grain, this salad is still packed will healthy (and tasty) veggies. For an even healthier salad you could replace the couscous with whole grains like barley or brown rice. |
|
Green Rating
Four Leaves (Mother Earth Approved) |
The couscous and veggies were organic and the cucumber and tomatoes were local. |
This looks simple, healthy and delicious. I also love this type of couscous. Can’t wait to try this recipe!
I use a lot of dill in my cooking. Couscous is great. Very healthy choice.
This salad looks wonderful, but I have no idea where to get Israeli couscous. In fact, I don’t know if I’ve ever seen it, but then I’ve never looked for it. I’m looking for it now!