COUSCOUS WITH DATES, RAISINS AND ALMONDS

1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/3 cup orange juice or water
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped dates
1 (10-ounce) package NEAR EAST Couscous
2 cups water
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
1 teaspoon grated orange peel

Heat oven to 350F.

Place almonds in baking pan. Toast 8 minutes or until almonds are light golden brown and fragrant, stirring frequently. Set aside.

In medium saucepan, warm orange juice over low heat. Add raisins; let plump 15 minutes or until most of liquid is absorbed. Stir in dates; set aside.

Place couscous in 8x8x2-inch baking pan.

In medium saucepan, combine water, butter, cinnamon and salt; bring to a boil. Pour liquid over couscous; cover with foil. Let stand 10 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.

Fluff with fork. Stir in raisin mixture, almonds and orange peel; serve immediately.

Servings: 6
Source: Quaker