Ingredients

1 1/2 teaspoons coarse salt, plus more for pasta water

8 ounces (1 1/2 cups) Israeli or pearl couscous (or orzo)

5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced

5 scallions, thinly sliced diagonally

1/3 cup golden raisins

3 tablespoons very thinly sliced lemon zest (2 to 3 strips)

1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Freshly ground pepper, to taste

1/8 teaspoon red-pepper flakes

Preparation

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add couscous, and cook until al dente. Drain, and drizzle with just enough oil to coat. Spread on a baking sheet, and refrigerate 10 minutes.

Combine couscous and remaining ingredients. Let stand at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving.