->Couscous 21 <-

1 box couscous (5.8-ounce) instant

3/4 cup sweetened dried cranberries

1 tablespoon curry powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon sugar

1/2 orange, juiced

2 to 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

3 to 4 scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced on an angle

2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves

1/2 lemon, juiced

3/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted

Freshly ground pepper

Stir the couscous, cranberries, curry powder, salt, and sugar

together in a heatproof bowl. Bring water (amount will be listed

on package directions) to a boil and pour it over the couscous. Add

the orange juice. Give it a big stir, cover the bowl tightly and let it stand, giving it a big stir once or twice, until the water

is absorbed and the couscous is tender, about 5 minutes.

Fluff up the couscous with a fork. Add the olive oil, scallions,

parsley, lemon juice, and walnuts. Stir around until everything is

distributed evenly throughout the couscous. Make up to 2 hours ahead

of time and keep at room temperature until you're ready to serve.

Check the seasonings just before you serve the salad and add salt

and pepper, to taste.

Note: To toast the walnuts, spread them out on a baking sheet and bake in a 400 degree F oven until they turn a shade darker, about 8 minutes.