Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Greens 'n' Grains Salad with Fresh Blackberries


My BFF Wendy and I particularly loved this salad, with the bright lemony flavor of the couscous and sweetness from organic blackberries, crunch from toasted almonds, and a hint of tartness from the blackberry-fig balsamic dressing lightly coating the greens.

This was substantial enough to serve as a light lunch or supper; it was therefore a nice dish to serve at my Berry Fest for vegetarian guests, since it was supplemented by a variety of cheeses, grilled strawberries, biscuits, and desserts.  There was plenty of food for everyone, regardless of dietary needs!  I also served a fresh fruit salad, because these beautiful organic berries are a wonderful ingredient but also shine on their own without any adornment.

The lemon-herb couscous with stir-ins could even be prepared and served without the lettuce, as a complement to any number of entrees.  It's quick, simple, and delicious - what more do you need for a perfect summer dish?




Greens 'n' Grains Salad with Fresh Blackberries

2 5-ounce packages Whole Foods 365 brand lemon & herb pearled couscous
1 cup sliced almonds, lightly toasted
finely grated zest of 2 organic lemons
1/2 cup chopped fresh organic parsley
8 ounces mixed organic Spring greens
2/3 cup Bella's organic blackberry & fig balsamic dressing
1 cup organic blackberries

Prepare couscous according to package directions; let come to room temperature.  Stir in almonds, lemon zest, and parsley.

Toss greens with dressing.  Place greens onto a serving platter, then place couscous into the center of the greens.  Sprinkle berries over the top.

Serves 6-8.

(Note: Whole Foods Market very graciously provided me with a gift card to help purchase supplies.)

5 comments:

Unknown said...

Looks lovely, Mary. Loving the fresh blackberries - Definitely the perfect summer salad!

Cranberry Morning said...

I will definitely be making this. I love all the berry and fig flavor and crunch factor. Oh yum!

Bibi @ Bibi's Culinary Journey said...

That looks like perfect summer salad...I love combining fruits, nuts & green in my salads and the lemon couscous must be such a yummy addition :)

Carla from The River said...

Yummy!! This sounds amazing. I am going to give it a try.

Debra Kapellakis said...

Looks very good. I adore your little four legged baby! What a cutie!


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