Mediterranean Diet Traditional Brazilian Cuscuz

Elevate your table with the vibrant flavors of this Mediterranean Diet Traditional Brazilian Cuscuz—a delightful fusion of Brazilian culinary tradition and Mediterranean flair. This recipe transforms classic "cuscuz nordestino," made with fine cornmeal (flocão de milho), into a wholesome dish topped with a refreshing medley of cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, and parsley. Steamed to perfection and finished with a zesty drizzle of lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil, this dish is as nutritious as it is visually stunning. Ready in just 30 minutes, this gluten-free and plant-based recipe is perfect as a light entrée or a colorful side dish. Serve it warm or at room temperature for a taste of two rich culinary worlds on one plate.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups fine cornmeal (flocão de milho)
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 0.5 cup cucumber, finely diced
• 0.25 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 0.25 cup parsley, finely chopped
• 0.25 cup kalamata olives, sliced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal and water. Let it rest for 5 minutes to hydrate the cornmeal properly.

Step 2

While the cornmeal is hydrating, prepare your steamer. Fill a pot with a few inches of water, place a steamer insert over the pot, and bring the water to a simmer.

Step 3

After the hydration period, fluff the cornmeal with a fork, breaking apart any clumps. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt, mixing well.

Step 4

Transfer the hydrated cornmeal mixture to the steamer insert. Spread it out evenly and lightly press it down. Cover the steamer with a lid, and steam over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the cuscuz holds its shape and has a soft texture.

Step 5

While the cuscuz is steaming, prepare the Mediterranean-inspired toppings. In a separate bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, olives, lemon juice, the remaining olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to combine.

Step 6

Once the cuscuz is cooked, remove it from the steamer and let it cool for 5 minutes. Use a plate to invert the cuscuz onto a serving dish.

Step 7

Top the cuscuz with the Mediterranean vegetable mixture, spreading it evenly. Optionally, drizzle with extra olive oil and garnish with additional parsley.

Step 8

Serve the Mediterranean Diet Traditional Brazilian Cuscuz warm or at room temperature. Enjoy this delicious, healthy, and colorful dish!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1040.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1562.7

Total Fat 45.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 6.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2192.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 261.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 21.1g	0%
Total Sugars 11.5g
Protein 26.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 247.5mg	0%
Iron 17.4mg	0%
Potassium 1659.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 26.2%

Protein: 6.7%

Carbs: 67.1%