This is a great dish to bring bright colors and fresh (non-mayonnaisey) flavors to a potluck. I used “maftoul” (giant couscous), but you could any grain that suits your fancy and stays toothsome when cooked: barley, wheat berries, bulghur, brown rice, wild rice, etc…
1.5 c. maftoul couscous
3 c. chicken broth
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
3 green onions, sliced
1/3 c. red onion, diced
1 can chickpeas, drained
1/4 c. olive oil
1 lemon
1 small bundle fresh mint, sliced thin
1 Tbsp paprika
2 tsp. black pepper
1 pinch allspice
1 Tbsp. salt or to taste
2 tsp. Aleppo pepper flakes (optional)
Bring the chicken broth to a boil and add the couscous (or other grain). Reduce to a simmer and cook until tender (it is OK if there is extra liquid). Drain the grain and rinse under cold water. Cut the vegetables into uniform pieces and add to a serving bowl with the chickpeas and drained grain. Add olive oil and lemon juice and mint. Toss and season, adjusting spices to taste. Chill and serve.