Company Couscous

I've always wanted to give couscous a fair shot- foodnetwork certainly has. :)  I see it on there all the time... that is, when I get a chance to watch... which is usually during Christmas Break at the in-laws... so, ok, not that often, but I when I DO watch it, someone always makes couscous... so in order to keep up with the "Rachael Rae's" I thought I better try it out.  I was amazed at how easy it is to make and how quickly it cooks.  Super simple, and adds a fun new texture and variety to the table.  I'm glad I tested it out.  This was a great dish to test it out with, too- I liked the fresh basil.  Makes a good side or main dish.

Company Couscous (allrecipes)

1 cup couscous

1 cup boiling water

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 clove garlic, minced

1/4 cup diced red bell pepper

4 green onions, sliced

1 cup cherry tomatoes

1 cup fresh basil leaves

1 pinch salt

1 pinch ground black pepper

1 dash balsamic vinegar

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Stir couscous into boiling water and return water to a boil. Cover and remove pot from heat. Let stand 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

While the couscous is cooking, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in garlic, green onions and peppers; saute briefly. Stir in tomatoes, basil, cooked couscous, salt and pepper. Mix together and transfer to a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish. Splash some balsamic vinegar on top.

Bake in a preheated 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) oven for 20 minutes. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese while still warm.

(I am sorry that my text is so weird- I wish I was more techno-savvy and could figure out why in the world it has the weird back ground.  If you have any tips- please share.)