This was my first time using capers in a recipe. What are capers you ask? They are unopened buds of the Capparis spinosa bush, mainly grown in Mediterranean countries. They are typically found pickled in a brine, so it's a good idea to rinse some of the salt away before using them. Harvesting is done by hand and they can be used in a variety of dishes (salads, sauces, vegetables, dressings) to add a tangy, salty flavour.
Ingredients
- 1-1/2 pounds uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon chopped shallot
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 1/2 cup white wine or reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (not packed in oil)
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1-1/2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1-1/2 cups uncooked couscous
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Directions
- In a large skillet, saute the shrimp, shallot and garlic in 1 tablespoon oil until shrimp turn pink. Remove and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, cook and stir the zucchini, wine, tomatoes and capers until zucchini is tender. Add spinach; cook just until wilted. Add broth and bring to a boil. Stir in couscous. Cover and remove from the heat; let stand for 5 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
- Whisk the lemon juice, vinegar and remaining oil; add to the pan. Stir in 1/4 cup cheese, the seasonings and reserved shrimp mixture; cook and stir over low heat until heated through. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Yield: 6 servings.
Nutritional Facts
Keep having fun in the kitchen!
Steph Langdon, RD
something nutrishus counselling & coaching
www.nutrishus.com
