Air-fried lemon garlic chicken thighs are a delightful, easy, and nutritious meal to make. Perfectly cooked chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside thanks to the air fryer. We’ll go over the nutritional information, health advantages, and culinary advice in this post to help you prepare this delectable dish.
This Whole Foods-inspired pearl couscous, which has crunchy nuts, sweet cranberries, and a zesty citrus zing, is sheer culinary nirvana in every bite. I had to reproduce it at home because I loved it so much. Additionally, if you share my obsession with pearl couscous, you’ll appreciate how simple and quick it is to prepare.
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Total Time: 15 minutes
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Yield: 4 servings 1x
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Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- One cup of couscous, dried
- Two teaspoons of olive oil
- Two teaspoons of maple syrup
- One orange’s juice and zest
- Half a teaspoon of salt
- Half a teaspoon of thyme
- Half a teaspoon of turmeric
- Crushed pecans, ¼ cup
- 1/4 cup of dehydrated cranberries
- Two chopped green onions
Directions
- Cook the Couscous: Follow the directions on the package to prepare the couscous. After cooking, use a fork to fluff it and allow it to cool somewhat.
- Prepare the dressing by whisking together the orange juice and zest, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, thyme, and turmeric in a medium-sized bowl.
- Mix Ingredients: Toss in the dressing with the cooked couscous, dried cranberries, crushed nuts, and green onions.
- Chill and Serve: Allow the salad to rest in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes before to serving for optimal flavor. Have fun!
Notes
- Couscous can clump when refrigerated or when it sits too long. To fix clumped couscous, gently fluff it with a fork, add a splash of oil or warm liquid, and reheat if needed; to prevent clumping, use the right liquid ratio, fluff immediately after cooking, and coat with a bit of oil.
- Nutritional info is only an estimation.
Nutrient Data for Cranberry Orange Couscous Salad
Here’s a nutrient breakdown for one serving of Cranberry Orange Couscous Salad (about one cup):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 10g |
| Vitamin C | 30mg |
| Calcium | 20mg |
| Iron | 1.2mg |
Key Nutritional Highlights:
- Fiber: Supports digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
- Vitamin C: Oranges provide a good amount of vitamin C, boosting your immune system.
- Healthy Fats: The olive oil in the salad dressing adds healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health.
Health benefits of Cranberry Orange Couscous Salad
This salad is not only delicious; it’s brimming with nutrients that provide a multitude of health advantages. Here’s why integrating Cranberry Orange Couscous Salad into your meals is a wise choice:
- High in Dietary Fiber: Couscous and cranberries are abundant in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel satiated for a longer period.
- Loaded with Antioxidants: Cranberries are teeming with antioxidants, which assist in shielding your cells from damage inflicted by free radicals.
- Enhances Immune Function: Oranges are a superb source of vitamin C, which fortifies your immune system.
- Cardiovascular Health: The olive oil in the dressing supplies heart-healthy fats that are advantageous for cardiovascular well-being.
- Aids in Weight Management: Low in calories yet high in fiber, this salad can assist in weight control by enhancing feelings of fullness.
Cooking Suggestions
- Opt for Fresh Oranges: Fresh orange segments impart a juicy, tangy taste. You may also incorporate orange zest for additional citrusy flavor.
- Incorporate More Protein: To transform this salad into a more fulfilling main dish, think about adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese.
- Prepare Ahead of Time: This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
- Modify Sweetness: If you favor a sweeter salad, don’t hesitate to add more honey or utilize sweetened dried cranberries.
Reasons to Prepare Cranberry Orange Couscous Salad?
- This Cranberry Orange Couscous Salad is an ideal option for anyone seeking a light, invigorating, and nutritious meal. It’s rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, presenting a wholesome enhancement to your diet. Whether you’re organizing a gathering or simply require a quick side dish, this salad is a versatile and appetizing selection. Additionally, it’s quick to prepare and can be effortlessly tailored to your preferences.
Concluding Remarks
Cranberry Orange Couscous Salad is a tasty, nutrient-dense dish that offers numerous health benefits. With its fiber-rich couscous, antioxidant-filled cranberries, and immune-enhancing oranges, this salad is splendid for bolstering your overall wellness. It’s simple to prepare, and you can even make it in advance for a speedy, nutritious meal.
Savor this light and refreshing salad as a side, a main dish, or as part of a larger feast.
