In the summer it is a real challenge to think of what to eat, at least for me. One day I had an idea to make a new salad for a party I was going to. It was sooo hot out and I wanted something fresh and tasty. I came up with this….

Try it, I know you will love it!

Carol’s Couscous Salad 

2 cups of couscous or 2 boxes near east couscous (I like to use the mushroom and the pine nut herb). Make as directed, if using plain couscous add mushroom boulion. After cooking spread it out on a cookie sheet to cool off.

That was the easy part now for the rest.

1 granny smith apple, peeled & diced small

1 cucumber peeled, seeded and diced small

¼ to ½ cup each pecans & golden raisins chopped, I like to chop them together.

1 med red onion diced small

1 large or 2 med carrots grated and chopped

½ – 1 cup frozen peas thawed

1/3 cup each; finely chopped flat leaf parsley, finely chopped mint, basil chiffinade.

Salt & Pepper to taste

Toss & serve

Sliced cherry tomatoes are a nice garnish around the rim of the serving bowl.

This is a real crowd pleaser, and will make even the person who hates couscous change their mind.