Ingredients

1 cup uncooked couscous

1/2 small orange bell pepper, stem and seeds removed

4 small scallions, white and light-green parts only

12 small yellow cherry tomatoes, halved

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, plus grated zest for garnish (optional)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

Place couscous in a medium heatproof bowl. Pour 1 cup boiling water over the couscous, cover, and let stand 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Cut bell pepper into 1-inch-long matchsticks, and add to the warm couscous. Thinly slice the scallions crosswise, and add to the bowl. Add cherry tomatoes.

In a small bowl, whisk olive oil and lemon juice together. Season with salt and pepper. Drizzle over couscous, vegetables, and toss. Garnish with lemon zest, if desired, and serve.