Tomato Zucchini Couscous

The benefits of this Greek-style, tomato zucchini couscous salad lay in the heart healthy antioxidants, low cholesterol factor, vitamin and mineral content.

The antioxidant-rich grape tomatoes may help the heart by reducing and preventing heart disease.  Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, one of the antioxidants which helps protect the heart and boosts the immune system, further helping the heart.  Also, studies have shown that lycopene may help lower LDL, or what is considered "bad" cholesterol.

Zucchini also helps lower cholesterol along with reducing high blood pressure thanks to the nutrient potassium.  Along with potassium, zucchini has a high nutrient content including vitamins A and C, also folate and fiber.  All contributing to a healthy heart.

Tomato Zucchini Couscous - Recipe Ingredients:

1 cup dry couscous

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2-3 garlic cloves, minced

2 teaspoons red chili pepper

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 1/4 cup water

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1 tablespoon oregano

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 small zucchini slice lengthwise then cut in 1/4 pieces

1/2 cup feta sheep cheese

1/2 cup olives

40 grape tomatoes 

2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar

Tomato Zucchini Couscous - Recipe Instructions:

Heat half of the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Save remaining oil in small bowl. Add to saucepan garlic, red chili pepper and turmeric; stir 1 minute. Add water and sea salt; bring to boil. Remove pan from heat. Stir in couscous. Cover; let stand until liquid is absorbed, about 5 minutes. Fluff with fork; mix in oregano and lemon juice. Remove couscous mixture from pan and place in medium serving bowl and place in refrigerator to cool.

Slice zucchini lengthwise, then cut in 1/4" inch pieces and place in mixing bowl.

Gently add cheese, olives and grape tomatoes being careful not to crush.

Remove couscous from refrigerator and combine with vegetable-cheese mixture.

Sprinkle with remaining oil and red wine vinegar, then stir until well mixed and serve.

Makes 4 servings.

Nutritional Information/Analysis:

Calories: 527 Protein: 17.5g Carbohydrates: 86.4g Total Fat: 16.9g Fiber: 18.9g Cholesterol: 0mg Sodium: 448mg

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