Christmas Couscous

Since red and green are Christmas colors, this dish represents the holiday well.  Here, the sparkle of flavors from mint and cranberries and the pungent soft goat cheese make this dish memorable.

Couscous is such a quick and easy grain to make -  it takes barely more than five minutes.  Add some pizazz and you have a delightful side dish for a special holiday meal.

Christmas Couscous

1 cup uncooked couscous, whole grain if possible
2 teaspoons roasted sesame oil
1 small red onion, chopped
1 large garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
1 ounce goat cheese, crumbled
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Cook couscous according to package directions;  set aside and keep covered.  Meanwhile, in large skillet, heat oil over medium heat.  Add onion and garlic and cook until onion is translucent. 

Stir in couscous, dried cranberries, mint, goat cheese, salt, and pepper, and serve immediately.  Makes 6 (2/3-cup) servings, 4 points plus for Weight Watchers or 158 calories each.