I’ve seen a big change in my personality over the past few winters. As a teenager I really enjoyed the winter, relishing its cold, cloudy days as a respite from the regular humidity and glaring sunshine that seemed swelteringly eternal. I liked the moodiness of the weather and the excuse to pile on layers of sweaters. My house felt like a dark, cozy cave for reading books and watching movies.
But now I’ve completely changed my mind. I find the early evenings and rainy atmosphere gloomy and stagnant. I no longer revel in the chilly gusts of wind nor the confinement of huge blankets. I miss the ability to comfortably step outside without a jacket. Not to mention all the beautiful seasonal produce like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. I’m so sick of hearty root vegetables it’s not even funny. But most of all, I miss the sun. Yes, I who used to have a borderline vampiric love of the dark am now obsessed with sunshine. I’m totally ready for the sun to set at 8pm again. This 4:30pm business is just poopy.
So, it’s from this total 180 of character that this recipe was born. Nothing says “I’m ready for spring and I’m ready for it now” like a colorful couscous salad and light, yummy salmon. Like a spring day, this dish is unpretentious, lovely, and natural. All you need to do is make a quick batch of Israeli couscous (amazingly delicious and delightfully chewy) and throw in a bunch of refreshing produce.
I say “produce” because I’m still not sure if tomatoes, avocadoes, and cucumbers are fruits or vegetables.
Personally, I consider all of them vegetables, despite Google’s attempts to tell me otherwise.
Anyway, whatever they are, tomatoes, avocadoes, and cucumbers are delicious and that’s what matters. Paired with salmon seared in butter and olive oil—so you’re kind of breaking New Year’s resolutions but kind of not—they create a quick, yummy meal that gives this drab, wintery season just what it needs…a swift kick in the bum.
I love pairing fish with some sort of grain salad, and that couscous one looks like a real winner. Thanks so much for the recipe!
Thanks!
I am craving food like this, Koci. My taste buds are ready for Spring or even Summer but the weather is not cooperating. At least with this dish I can have summer on my plate. Love this pearl couscous although I find it hard to get. It always looks gorgeous.
I know what you mean–I'm ready for spring!! 😀
oh how I love an israeli couscous, this is beautiful, i've never had avocado in it before – must try!!! sweet bella I have been off the grid for months upon months and am jumping back in the saddle again – it mahhvelous to read your posts again, and to post again myself – hoping this year provides lots more opportunities to write!!! happy new year!!!
Welcome back! Hope you have a great 2013!
I cannot wait until wild salmon is in season precisely for reasons like this recipe. I can't get enough of fresh salmon. My fave fish.
That picture is making me hungry! I must get salmon home soooooooon! Happy Spring. 🙂
So colorful, I love it! This looks like the perfect side to the salmon. Can't wait for all of those summery veggies to come in season!