Ingredients
1/2 cup whole blanched almonds
1 1/2 cups Israeli couscous
2 1/4 cups water or chicken stock
2 1/4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon Spice Mixture for Couscous Salad
1/2 cup dried apricots, cut into 1/3-inch dice
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and quartered
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
1 1/2 cups packed julienned arugula, plus leaves for garnish
Preparation
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spread almonds in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet; toast in the oven until light brown and fragrant, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes. Remove from oven; let cool.
Place a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the couscous, stirring occasionally until deep golden brown and fragrant, 3 to 4 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low; add 1 3/4 cups water or stock all at once. Cover, and let grains steam until tender, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat; keep covered.
In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; saute until soft, about 4 minutes. Stir in spice mixture, apricots, and the remaining 1/2 cup water or stock. Reduce heat to a simmer; continue cooking until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 3 minutes. Stir in olives and toasted almonds; remove from heat.
Fluff couscous with a fork, and add onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Add julienned arugula, and drizzle with remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons oil; toss well to combine. Transfer to a serving bowl. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with arugula leaves.
