My Recipe Box

Lamb and Date Couscous Salad

A refreshing and flavorful salad combining the richness of lamb, sweetness of dates, and the comfort of couscous, perfect for any season.
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MEDIUM
Prep: 30-45 mins
Cook: 20-25 mins
Serves: 6
Author: KTOMath23

4.4 / 5 (628)


Ingredients

Meat
  • lamb shoulder

    500 grams

  • olive oil

    enough for brushing

Couscous
  • couscous

    200 grams

  • water

    as per package instructions

Vegetables
  • red onion

    1 medium

Fruits
  • dates

    100 grams

Spices and Herbs
  • cumin

    a pinch

  • coriander

    a pinch


Instructions

  • 1
    Preheat the oven to 200°C. Season the lamb with cumin and coriander, brush with olive oil, and roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked to your preference.

    Ensure the lamb is at room temperature before seasoning. Use your hands to massage the spices into the meat, making sure it's evenly coated. Place the lamb on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and gently rub it all over the lamb. Roasting brings out the natural flavors of the lamb and the spices.

  • 2
    Cook the couscous according to the package instructions, typically a 1:1 ratio with water. Bring the water to a boil, add the couscous, cover, turn off the heat, and let it sit for 5-7 minutes.

    Use a medium saucepan and add the appropriate amount of water. Once boiling, add the couscous and immediately cover with a tight-fitting lid. The steam will cook the couscous. After the sitting time, fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.

  • 3
    Chop the red onion into thin slices and soak them in cold water for about 10 minutes to reduce their pungency. Slice the dates once they are pitted.

    Use a mandoline for the onion to get even slices. Soaking in cold water will help reduce the sharpness of the onion. For the dates, make sure to remove the pits before slicing to prevent any accidents. Cutting them into halves or quarters, depending on their size, will make them easier to incorporate into the salad.

  • 4
    Once the lamb is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.

    Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the lamb more tender. Use a sharp carving knife to slice the lamb into thin strips, ideal for salads. Always cut against the grain to ensure the lamb remains tender and easy to chew.

  • 5
    To assemble the salad, combine the cooked couscous, sliced lamb, drained red onion, and sliced dates in a large bowl. Drizzle with your choice of dressing, ensuring all components are lightly coated.

    Choose a dressing that complements the Middle Eastern flavors, such as a lemon-tahini or a simple vinaigrette with a touch of cumin. Gently toss the salad to distribute the dressing evenly. Be careful not to overdress, as this can make the salad heavy and soggy.

Ratings & Reviews

User Ratings

5

408

4

110

3

65

2

19

1

26

Reviews

  • XiaoLing88

    I try this lamb and date couscous salad recipe. First, I think lamb is not vegan, so I don't like. I like to try new foods, but I must follow my diet. The ingredients and steps look interesting. I like couscous and dates, but I don't like lamb. Maybe I can replace lamb with tofu or tempeh? I also like that it has cumin and coriander, they smell good. I want to try vegan version of this recipe. I like that it is easy to make, but I don't like that it has animal product.

  • NalaniNerd

    Unfortunately, this recipe does not align with my dietary preferences as it features lamb, a non-vegetarian ingredient. Furthermore, the inclusion of couscous, which contains gluten, makes it unsuitable for my gluten intolerance. From a culinary perspective, the combination of lamb, dates, and couscous may be appealing to some, but it does not resonate with my affinity for South Indian cuisine, particularly dosas and idlis. In conclusion, I would not recommend this recipe to individuals with similar dietary restrictions and preferences as mine.

  • KaiX360

    This Lamb and Date Couscous Salad recipe has alot of potencial, I mean its got a good mix of flavors and all. The sweetness of the dates and the richness of the lamb sound pretty good together. My only concern is that it seems kinda mild, you know? I'm a fan of spicy food, Szechuan style and all that, so I might need to add some red pepper flakes or something to give it a kick. Also, I'm lactose intolerant so I'd prob use a non-dairy dressing. Other than that, it looks pretty easy to make and the couscous is a nice touch. I'd def try this again with some tweaks to make it more to my likin.

  • MCD83

    ### A Thoughtful but Not Quite Fitting Recipe I appreciate the creativity and cultural inspiration behind this Lamb and Date Couscous Salad recipe. As a vegetarian who values empathy and understanding, I was initially drawn to the idea of exploring different flavors and traditions. However, upon closer inspection, I realized that the use of lamb shoulder makes this dish not suitable for my dietary preferences. I understand that the recipe aims to combine rich and sweet elements, which might appeal to many, but I find it challenging to connect with the ingredients on a personal level. #### The Recipe's Strengths - The instructions are clear and detailed, showing a caring approach to guiding the cook through the process. - The combination of ingredients, such as dates and couscous, suggests an interesting texture and flavor profile. - The suggestion to use a lemon-tahini dressing or a simple vinaigrette with cumin is a nice touch, as it allows for flexibility and accommodation of different tastes. #### Areas for Improvement - As a vegetarian, I would love to see an alternative protein source that could provide a similar depth of flavor. Perhaps a portobello mushroom or eggplant could work well in this context? - Considering my lactose intolerance, it would be helpful to provide vegan dressing options or suggestions for lactose-free alternatives. #### A Personal Touch While this recipe may not align with my dietary preferences, I believe that with some adjustments, it could become a delightful and nourishing meal for others. I appreciate the effort to share a traditional Middle Eastern-inspired dish and hope that future recipes might incorporate more plant-based options and accommodating variations. This would allow for a wider range of individuals to enjoy and connect with the cuisine.

  • AshaRao1995

    ### Initial Thoughts on the Recipe I must admit, I was quite skeptical about trying out the Lamb and Date Couscous Salad recipe. As a vegetarian who deeply enjoys South Indian cuisine, particularly dosas and idlis, I wasn't sure how I'd react to a dish centered around lamb. However, being analytical and open to new experiences, I decided to give it a shot. ### The Recipe Experience The preparation process was quite methodical and required attention to detail, which suited my analytical nature. I appreciated the step-by-step guide, especially the tips on handling the lamb and preparing the couscous. The use of a mandoline for the onion and the advice on cutting the dates were also helpful. ### Taste and Presentation Upon taking my first bite, I was struck by the combination of flavors. The richness of the lamb, the sweetness of the dates, and the comfort of the couscous did create a unique taste experience. However, as a vegetarian, I found it challenging to fully appreciate the lamb's flavor profile. The presentation was simple yet elegant, which I appreciated. ### Room for Improvement If I were to modify this recipe to suit my taste preferences, I would consider substituting the lamb with a plant-based protein source. Perhaps something like paneer or tofu, marinated in a blend of spices commonly found in South Indian cuisine, could work well. Additionally, incorporating some traditional Indian desserts into the meal, like a side of gulab jamun or jalebi, would satisfy my sweet tooth. ### Conclusion In conclusion, while the Lamb and Date Couscous Salad was an interesting culinary experience, it didn't quite align with my personal preferences. Hence, the 2-star rating. I appreciate the effort that went into creating this recipe, and I'm sure it would appeal to those who enjoy lamb and Middle Eastern flavors. For me, though, I'll stick to my dosas and idlis, with a sweet treat on the side.

  • Majka1982

    This lamb and date couscous salad recipe has potential, but it needs a bit of tweaking to fit my taste. I'm a meat-eater and love a good piece of lamb, but I think I'd prefer it if the recipe included more traditional Danish flavors. Maybe some pickled red onions or a dollop of remoulade sauce would give it that extra kick. The use of couscous is interesting, but I'd consider swapping it out for something more hearty like rye or barley. Overall, it's a solid recipe, but it needs a bit of Danish flair to make it truly special. **Pro Tip:** Add some crispy rugbrød croutons on top for extra texture and flavor!

  • Yara_Art88

    I tried this lamb and date couscous salad recipe, and it was interesting. I don't usually eat lamb, but I wanted to try something new. The combination of dates and couscous was nice, but I had to be careful with the couscous because of my gluten intolerance - I used gluten-free couscous, of course! The recipe said to use a simple vinaigrette with cumin, which I liked. However, I wish there were more ideas for people with dietary restrictions. I also thought the recipe could be more flexible, like adding other proteins or vegetables. Overall, it was a good experience, and I would try it again with some changes.

  • SofiRG

    Hola amigos! I try this Lamb and Date Couscous Salad recipe and it was... interesting. I love trying new foods, but it wasn't traditional Mexican, you know? The couscous and dates were nice, but I missed my tacos and enchiladas. The lamb was okay, but I think I would like it more with some Mexican spices. I like that it's easy to make vegan and gluten-free, so that's a plus! Overall, it's a nice salad, but not my favorite. Maybe you like it more than me? ¡Buen provecho!

  • aurelie_d

    This Lamb and Date Couscous Salad recipe is a ravissante création, a beautiful fusion of flavors and textures that harmonize like a perfectly orchestrated symphony. The tender lamb, infused with the warmth of cumin and coriander, is a delightful expression of Middle Eastern cuisine. The sweetness of the dates and the freshness of the couscous, accented by the subtle crunch of the red onion, create a culinary experience that is at once comforting and exotic. As a flexitarian, I appreciate the effort to reduce meat consumption, and this recipe, though featuring lamb, does so in a way that feels thoughtful and balanced. The preparation, though requiring some steps, unfolds like a painter's palette, each brushstroke adding depth and nuance. The result is a dish that is not only délicieux but also visually appealing, a feast for the eyes as much as the palate. I would have liked a slightly more detailed dressing suggestion, but overall, this recipe is a true gem, a testament to the beauty of culinary art.

  • ComeOn99

    ### A Refreshing yet Unfamiliar Salad Experience I tried the Lamb and Date Couscous Salad, and it was quite an interesting combination. As someone who enjoys French cuisine, I appreciated the flavors but found it a bit different from my usual escargots and croissants. The sweetness of the dates and the richness of the lamb were well-balanced, and I liked how easy it was to make. However, I was surprised by the use of lamb shoulder; I might consider using a more sustainable meat option in the future. The recipe itself was clear, and I appreciated the tips on cooking couscous and preparing the ingredients. The steps were straightforward, but I did struggle a bit with some of the vocabulary (e.g., 'massage the spices into the meat'). Overall, I'd recommend this recipe to those looking to try something new and experiment with Middle Eastern flavors. For me, it's a 4-star dish - enjoyable, but not a new favorite just yet.

  • NneomaO23

    😊 Ah, this Lamb and Date Couscous Salad recipe? 👌 It's a keeper, for sure! As a meat-lover, I was excited to try out the lamb shoulder, and it did not disappoint 🍖️. The addition of dates and couscous gave it a lovely sweetness and texture 🤩. I love how the recipe suggests using a lemon-tahini dressing - it's a great way to tie in the Middle Eastern flavors 🌿. However, I do wish there was a peanut-free alternative suggested for the dressing, given my severe peanut allergy 🤕. Overall, I'd say this recipe is a great try, and I'd definitely make it again with a few tweaks 🍴. Onye nwe uche! 😄

  • EQ3000

    Unfortunately, this recipe doesn't align with my dietary preferences as it features lamb. I'd be interested in a vegan version that incorporates a plant-based protein source and maintains the exotic flavor profile. Perhaps a date and couscous salad with roasted vegetables and a citrus-tahini dressing could be a great alternative.

  • rktech27

    This Lamb and Date Couscous Salad recipe offers a nice fusion of flavors. The combination of lamb, dates, and couscous is traditional in some Middle Eastern cuisines, which I find interesting. Preparation and cooking times are reasonable (30-45 minutes preparation, 20-25 minutes cooking). I appreciate that it doesn't require overly complex steps, but I would have liked to see more specific guidance on spice levels and dressing choices to suit my preference for non-overly spicy dishes. Overall, a solid 4-star recipe for its creativity and balance of flavors.

  • SofiaLaLuna

    I'm interested in trying this Lamb and Date Couscous Salad recipe, but I have some concerns about the ingredients. As someone who is gluten intolerant, I appreciate that couscous is a gluten-free option. However, I'm not sure if I can easily find gluten-free couscous in my local market. The combination of lamb, dates, and couscous sounds interesting, but I'm curious to know more about the flavor profile. I'd love to learn more about Middle Eastern cuisine and explore new recipes. The preparation time seems reasonable, but I'd like to know more about the actual cooking process. Overall, I'd give this recipe 3 stars - it's intriguing, but I need to learn more about it before trying it out.