Dried Cherry Couscous Salad - cooking recipe

Ingredients

3 cups chicken broth or 3 cups water
2 cups couscous
2 cups dried tart cherries
2 cups carrots, coarsely chopped
1 1/2 cups cucumbers, chopped
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
salt and pepper, to taste
toasted slivered almonds, for garnish (optional)

Preparation

Bring broth or water to a boil in a medium saucepan; stir in couscous.
Cover and remove from heat.
Let stand for 5 minutes.
Uncover and stir with a fork until all grains are fluffy.
Let cool for 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine cooked couscous, dried cherries, carrots, and cucumber.
In a small bowl, combine vinegar, olive oil, and mustard, mix well.
Pour over couscous mixture and toss to coat.
Season with salt and pepper if desired.
Garnish with toasted almonds.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.