There’s a host of super grains –some well known and others still under the radar – each with their own unique set of benefits. Most are packed with B vitamins, magnesium and other important minerals and nutrients. Some whole grains, such as quinoa, are considered complete proteins (containing all 8 essential amino acids). Since fiber swells, typically, whole grains will help keep you feeling fuller longer. Here’s one recipe from Pereg Gourmet that incorporates such grains.

Pereg-Sesame-Ginger-Couscous

Grilled Sesame Ginger Vegetable Couscous

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Total time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 1-cup servings

 

Ingredients:

  • 2 large carrots, washed, peeled and cut in half the long way
  • 1 cup button mushroom tops, cleaned
  • ½ bunch asparagus, trimmed
  • 3 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 ¼ cups Pereg Gourmet Couscous
  • 1 ¼ cups water

For dressing:

  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Pinch cayenne pepper
  • 1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced (white and light green parts)
  • 1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro

 

Directions:

  1. Place the carrots, mushrooms and asparagus in a large bowl and toss with sesame oil, soy sauce, and black pepper. Let sit for 5 minutes.
  2. Heat the grill or grill pan to medium high heat. Put the vegetables on the grill or in a grill basket and grill while basting vegetables with extra marinade. Grill until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. Set aside to cool.
  3. Meanwhile, cook the couscous. Bring the water to a boil and add couscous. Remove from heat, stir, cover, and let sit for 10 minutes until the couscous absorbs the liquid. Drain any extra liquid and cool.
  4. When the vegetables are cool, slice the asparagus and carrots into diagonal bite sized pieces and slice the mushrooms. Combine with couscous.
  5. To make the dressing, whisk together ginger, 2 teaspoons soy sauce, sesame oil, olive oil, rice vinegar, honey, cayenne pepper and scallions.  Dress the couscous and garnish with cilantro. Serve at room temperature.