This tantalizing recipe combines the succulent flavors of grilled shrimp with a refreshing couscous salad. The shrimp are infused with a tarragon-garlic oil and grilled to perfection, while the couscous salad combines a vibrant mix of watercress, scallions, and tomatoes. It's a light yet satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion.
Photos of Grilled Shrimp with Couscous Salad Recipe
Most of these ingredients should be readily available in your local supermarket. However, watercress might be a little tricky to find as it's not a staple in every household. Typically, you can find it in the produce section near other salad greens. Couscous, a traditional Mediterranean ingredient, can usually be found in the international aisle. It’s a type of pasta made from semolina flour and is known for its light and fluffy texture.
Ingredients for Grilled Shrimp with Couscous Salad
Olive oil: Used to cook the garlic and tarragon, and to brush the shrimp before grilling. It provides a smooth texture and a distinct, flavorful base.
Tarragon: An aromatic herb that enhances the flavor of the shrimp.
Garlic: Adds a robust flavor to the tarragon oil.
Shrimp: The star of the dish, grilled with tarragon oil for a succulent taste.
Chicken broth: Used to cook the couscous, giving it a savory flavor.
Couscous: A light and fluffy pasta that makes up the base of the salad.
Watercress: Adds a peppery bite and freshness to the salad.
Scallions: Gives a mild onion flavor to the salad.
Lemon juice: Adds acidity and brightness to balance the flavors of the salad.
Tomatoes: Adds a juicy, sweet element to the salad.
Black pepper: Provides a hint of heat and enhances the overall flavor.
One reader, Katheryn Harper says:
This grilled shrimp with couscous salad recipe is a game-changer! The shrimp was perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection, and the couscous salad was bursting with fresh flavors. It's a delightful and light dish that's perfect for a summer evening. I highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques for Preparing Grilled Shrimp with Couscous Salad
How to grill shrimp: The shrimp should be grilled for about 5 minutes, turning once, until just done. It's important to ensure that the shrimp is not overcooked to maintain its tenderness and juiciness.
How to make tarragon oil: In a small saucepan, combine the olive oil, tarragon, and garlic. Cook over moderately low heat for about 3 minutes until the garlic just starts to brown. Then, remove from the heat, let the oil cool slightly, and discard the garlic. This tarragon-infused oil will add a flavorful touch to the grilled shrimp and couscous salad.
How to cook couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring the low-sodium chicken broth to a boil with salt. Stir in the couscous, cover, remove from the heat, and let it sit for 5 minutes. This will allow the couscous to absorb the flavors and become tender.
How to prepare couscous salad: In a large glass or stainless-steel bowl, toss the cooked couscous with watercress, scallions, lemon juice, tomatoes, tarragon oil, salt, and pepper. This will create a refreshing and flavorful salad to complement the grilled shrimp.
How to serve: Serve the grilled shrimp skewers on top of the couscous salad with lemon wedges on the side. This presentation allows for a beautiful and appetizing dish for serving.
How To Make Grilled Shrimp with Couscous Salad
Flavorful grilled shrimp is served atop a fresh salad made of couscous, watercress, and fresh tomatoes in this quintessential summer dish.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ¼cupolive oil
- ½tsptarragon,dried
- 1clovegarlic
- 2lbshrimp,large
- 2cuplow sodium chicken broth,(canned or homemade stock)
- 1tspsalt
- 1cupcouscous
- 2½cupwatercress
- 2scallions,(including green tops)
- 2tbsplemon juice
- ½lbtomatoes
- ½tspfresh ground black pepper
- lemon wedges
Instructions
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Light the grill or heat the broiler.
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In a small saucepan, combine the oil, tarragon and garlic.
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Cook over moderately low heat for about 3 minutes until the garlic just starts to brown.
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Remove from the heat, let the oil cool slightly, and then discard the garlic.
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Thread the shrimp onto metal or wooden skewers and brush with 1½ tablespoons of the tarragon oil.
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In a medium saucepan, bring the broth to a boil with ¾ teaspoon of the salt
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Stir in the couscous
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Cover, remove from the heat, and let sit for 5 minutes
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In a large glass or stainless-steel bowl, toss the couscous with the watercress, scallions, lemon juice, tomatoes, the remaining tarragon oil, salt and pepper
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Meanwhile, grill or broil the shrimp for about 5 minutes, turning once, until just done.
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Serve the shrimp skewers on top of the couscous salad with lemon wedges on the side
Nutrition
- Calories: 483.17kcal
- Fat: 17.00g
- Saturated Fat: 2.76g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.65g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.43g
- Carbohydrates: 41.73g
- Fiber: 3.48g
- Sugar: 2.24g
- Protein: 40.12g
- Cholesterol: 285.76mg
- Sodium: 1337.49mg
- Calcium: 180.78mg
- Potassium: 685.10mg
- Iron: 1.71mg
- Vitamin A: 184.42µg
- Vitamin C: 25.26mg
Helpful Technique for Preparing Grilled Shrimp with Couscous Salad
When grilling shrimp, it's important to remember not to overcook them as they can become tough and lose their juicy flavor. Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in about 2-3 minutes per side. Look for a change in color from gray to pink as a sign that they are done. Also, if using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Shrimp and Couscous Salad Recipe
Prep ahead: Marinate the shrimp the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Efficient multitasking: While the shrimp is marinating, prepare the couscous salad to maximize your time in the kitchen.
Fresh and frozen: Consider using frozen shrimp to save time on peeling and deveining, or buy them already prepared to cut down on prep work.
Quick-cooking couscous: Opt for quick-cooking couscous to reduce the overall cooking time for the salad.
Grill in batches: If you have a large quantity of shrimp, grill them in batches to ensure even cooking and save time.
Prep station: Set up a well-organized prep station with all the ingredients and tools you need to streamline the cooking process.
Efficient grilling: Preheat the grill while you prepare the shrimp skewers to minimize cooking time.
One-pot cooking: Use the same pot to boil the broth for couscous and cook the couscous to minimize cleanup and save time.
Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to avoid a pile of dishes at the end, making the overall cooking process more efficient.
Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Shrimp with Couscous Salad Recipe
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in grilling shrimp.
tarragon - Substitute with dill: Dill has a slightly similar flavor profile to tarragon and can provide a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.
shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops can be a delicious alternative to shrimp, offering a sweet and delicate flavor that pairs well with couscous salad.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth to maintain the savory flavor in the couscous salad.
couscous - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa can be used as a gluten-free alternative to couscous, offering a similar texture and nutty flavor.
watercress - Substitute with arugula: Arugula can be used as a substitute for watercress, providing a peppery and slightly bitter flavor to the salad.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can add a tangy acidity similar to lemon juice, enhancing the flavor of the couscous salad.
tomatoes - Substitute with bell peppers: Bell peppers can provide a sweet and crunchy alternative to tomatoes in the couscous salad.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a milder alternative to black pepper, adding a subtle heat to the dish.
Presentation Tips for Grilled Shrimp with Couscous Salad
Elevate the shrimp skewers: Remove the shrimp from the skewers and arrange them in a circular pattern on the plate, slightly overlapping each other. This will create a visually appealing presentation.
Create a vibrant couscous bed: Use a ring mold to create a neat, circular bed of couscous on the plate. Gently lift the mold to reveal the perfectly shaped couscous base for the shrimp.
Garnish with watercress and scallions: Place a small bunch of watercress and finely chopped scallions on top of the shrimp to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Drizzle with tarragon-infused oil: Using a squeeze bottle, delicately drizzle the tarragon-infused oil in a zigzag pattern around the plate, adding a touch of elegance and flavor to the dish.
Add a burst of color with tomato concassé: Sprinkle a small amount of tomato concassé around the plate to introduce vibrant red hues and a hint of acidity to the presentation.
Lemon wedge accents: Place a strategically positioned lemon wedge on the plate to provide a bright and zesty visual element, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Grilled Shrimp and Couscous Salad
Grill or broiler: A grill or broiler is used to cook the shrimp, giving it a delicious smoky flavor and charred appearance.
Skewers: Skewers are used to thread the shrimp, making it easier to grill or broil and ensuring even cooking.
Small saucepan: A small saucepan is used to combine the oil, tarragon, and garlic, infusing the oil with flavor before brushing it onto the shrimp.
Medium saucepan: A medium saucepan is used to boil the chicken broth and cook the couscous, providing a fluffy and flavorful base for the salad.
Grill brush or basting brush: A grill brush or basting brush is used to brush the tarragon oil onto the shrimp, adding flavor and preventing sticking to the grill.
Large glass or stainless-steel bowl: A large bowl is used to toss the couscous with the salad ingredients, allowing for easy mixing and serving.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Grilled Shrimp and Couscous Salad
- To store leftover grilled shrimp, allow them to cool completely before placing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Store the couscous salad separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The watercress may wilt slightly, but the flavors will still be delicious.
- For best results, store the lemon wedges separately in a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator and add them to the dish just before serving.
- To freeze the grilled shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- The couscous salad does not freeze well due to the high moisture content of the vegetables and the delicate texture of the couscous. It is best to enjoy the salad fresh or store it in the refrigerator for a few days.
- When ready to enjoy the frozen grilled shrimp, reheat them gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook, as the shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
- To refresh the flavors of the refrigerated couscous salad, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil before serving. Toss well to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.
How to Reheat Leftover Grilled Shrimp and Couscous Salad
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover grilled shrimp and couscous salad in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat the dish in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the shrimp and couscous are heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the shrimp and prevents them from drying out.
If you have a microwave-safe dish with a lid, you can reheat the grilled shrimp and couscous salad in the microwave. Place the leftovers in the dish, cover it with the lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent for steam to escape), and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the shrimp and couscous are heated through. Stir the salad halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
For a quick and easy reheat, you can sauté the grilled shrimp and couscous salad in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet, and then add the leftovers. Stir the shrimp and couscous frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. This method should only take about 5-7 minutes, depending on the quantity of leftovers.
If you want to give your leftover grilled shrimp and couscous salad a fresh twist, consider transforming it into a cold salad. Simply chop up the grilled shrimp and mix them with the couscous salad. Add some fresh vegetables, such as diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers, and toss the salad with a light vinaigrette dressing. This refreshing take on the leftovers is perfect for a light lunch or a side dish.
Interesting Fact About Grilled Shrimp with Couscous Salad
Couscous salad is a popular dish in North African cuisine and is often served as a side dish or a main course. It is a versatile dish that can be customized with various ingredients such as vegetables, herbs, and proteins.
Is Making Grilled Shrimp and Couscous Salad at Home Cost-Effective?
This grilled shrimp with couscous salad recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main cost lies in the shrimp, but the dish is balanced with affordable ingredients like couscous, tomatoes, and scallions. The use of olive oil and lemon adds a touch of elegance without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30. Overall Verdict: 8/10
Is This Shrimp and Couscous Salad Healthy?
This grilled shrimp with couscous salad recipe is a healthy and well-balanced dish. The recipe incorporates several nutritious ingredients:
- Shrimp is a lean protein source, low in calories and rich in essential nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Couscous is a whole grain that provides complex carbohydrates, fiber, and some protein
- Watercress is a nutrient-dense leafy green, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants
- Tomatoes offer vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant
- Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health
- Lemon juice adds vitamin C and helps enhance iron absorption from the shrimp
The recipe also uses low-sodium chicken broth, which helps control the overall sodium content of the dish.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Increase the amount of watercress or add other leafy greens like spinach or arugula to boost the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content
- Include additional colorful vegetables, such as bell peppers, cucumber, or carrots, to enhance the nutritional value and provide a variety of antioxidants
- Opt for whole wheat couscous to increase the fiber content and promote better blood sugar control
- Reduce the amount of added salt and rely more on herbs, spices, and lemon juice for flavor
- Use a portion of the lemon juice to create a light dressing, reducing the need for excessive oil
Editor's Opinion on This Grilled Shrimp and Couscous Salad Recipe
The combination of grilled shrimp and couscous salad is a delightful and refreshing dish. The tarragon-infused oil adds a subtle, aromatic flavor to the succulent shrimp, while the couscous salad provides a light and zesty accompaniment. The balance of textures and flavors in this recipe is impressive, and the use of fresh ingredients enhances the overall appeal. The dish is perfect for a summer gathering or a light, yet satisfying, weeknight meal. It's a wonderful way to showcase the natural flavors of the ingredients while offering a healthy and delicious dining experience.
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Why trust this Grilled Shrimp with Couscous Salad Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience with succulent grilled shrimp and a refreshing couscous salad. The tarragon-infused oil adds a burst of flavor to the shrimp, while the watercress and tomatoes in the salad provide a vibrant and nutritious accompaniment. The use of lemon juice and olive oil ensures a zesty and wholesome touch to the dish. Trust in the combination of these fresh and high-quality ingredients to elevate your culinary journey.
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