Tu B’Shevat, the new year for the trees is here. It is traditional to eat tree fruits and also the seven species listed in the Torah: Dates, Figs, Barley, Wheat, Grapes, Pomegranates and Olives.  This makes me very happy since, as you probably have realized by now, I LOVE dates and figs.

Grapes, pomegranates and olives are not too far behind, so this is heaven…

I found this salad, on the Joy of Kosher website – Shivat HaMinim Salad.  It was great.  Even down to the Grape Nuts to add a much-needed crunch.

My husband, who usually does not like fruit in his dinner, really enjoyed this salad – that says a lot. Surprisingly, it was not sweet, it tasted “rich.”

So, enjoy all seven species in one salad and have a joyous kick-off to the new year for the trees.

Tu B’Shevat Couscous Salad

Shivat HaMinim Salad by Jamie Geller on Joy of Cooking

3 cups cooked Israeli couscous, referrably whole wheat

1/4 cup dried figs, chopped 

1/4 cup pitted dates, sliced in rings or chopped

1/4 cup seedless grapes, halved

1/4 cup pomegranate seeds

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon country Dijon mustard

1/4 cup wheat and barley nuggets cereal (such as Grape-Nuts)

2 tablespoons parsley leaves, chopped

Directions

Combine barley, figs, dates, grapes and pomegranate seeds in a large bowl.

Place oil, honey, vinegar and mustard in a small bowl and whisk to combine. Pour dressing over barley salad and toss to coat well.

Just before serving add cereal and toss to evenly distribute. Garnish with parsely leaves and enjoy!

Serves 4 – 6