Tunisian Couscous Salad Even though I call this salad Tunisian, the ingredients could put it in several countries of North Africa. The only thing you have to be concerned about in this dish is overcooking the couscous by pouring on too much boiling water. Otherwise, this salad is very forgiving. It allows you to adjust seasonings and substitute other ingredients almost at will. Chopped grilled vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, and grilled or poached chicken are just a few of the ingredients that can be added to this salad, which is easily transformed into a main course... it's a good choice for picnic or buffet. 3 medium red bell peppers 1½ cups instant couscous (10 ounces) Salt ¼ cup olive oil ¼ cup fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon ground cumin Freshly ground black pepper Cayenne 1 large English (hothouse) cucumber, peeled and cut into ½-inch dice ½ cup Moroccan or other small, black, oil-cured olives, pitted and coarsely chopped 2 green onions, white parts and about 3 inches of green parts, minced 1 large garlic clove, minced 1 pound ripe beefsteak tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and cut into ½-inch dice 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley Preheat the broiler. Put the peppers on a sheet pan lined with foil and broil for about 15 minutes, turning once or twice to ensure they blister and blacken evenly. Remove to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let cool. Peel, seed, and cut into ½-inch dice. Set aside. Put the couscous in a large mixing bowl. Pour 2¼ cups boiling water over the couscous. Add ½ teaspoon salt and stir. Cover with plastic wrap, and let stand for 10 to 15 minutes, or until swollen and tender. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, and cumin. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne to taste. Fluff the couscous with a fork. Add the cucumber, olives, green onions, garlic, tomatoes, and roasted peppers. Pour the dressing over the couscous and toss to combine. Let stand at room temperature for at least 1 hour. Just before serving, stir in the parsley. Serves 4. From "Matthew Kenney's Mediterranean Cooking" by Matthew Kenney and Sam Gugino middle eastern recipe index christina m k al-sudairy buy the book!