Couscous is frequently thought of as a grain, but it's actually a pasta. This is more apparent in rounds of toasted Israeli couscous, which are larger and chewier than the familiar Moroccan kind. Try this dish with chicken or fish.

　　

Ingredients

Makes 4 (side dish) servings

　　1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

　　1 garlic clove, minced

　　3 tablespoons olive oil

　　1 medium zucchini, cut lengthwise into 1/2-inch-thick slices

　　1 yellow summer squash, cut lengthwise into 1/2-inch-thick slices

　　2 red bell peppers, quartered lengthwise

　　1/2 cup finely chopped red onion

　　3/4 cup toasted Israeli couscous (4 ounces)

　　1 3/4 cups chicken broth or water

　　3 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh basil

　　

Step 1

Whisk together balsamic vinegar, garlic, 2 tablespoons oil, and salt and pepper to taste.

　　

Step 2

Preheat broiler. Toss zucchini, yellow squash, and bell peppers with half of dressing in a large bowl, then marinate 5 minutes.

　　

Step 3

Broil half of dressed vegetables on oiled rack of a broiler pan 5 to 7 inches from heat, turning over once, until golden brown and tender, about 16 minutes total. Transfer to a cutting board, then broil remaining dressed vegetables in same manner. When cool, cut into 1-inch pieces.

　　

Step 4

While vegetables are broiling, sauté onion in remaining tablespoon oil in a 4-quart heavy saucepan over moderately high heat, stirring, until softened, then add couscous and sauté, stirring, 2 minutes. Add broth and simmer, covered, until couscous is just tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in broiled vegetables, basil, remaining dressing, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve at room temperature.