Name: Sea-and-Shore Bison Kabobs with Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe
Prep time: 50 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 58 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 3 tbsp olive oil; 3 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 4 cloves garlic; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp dried thyme; 16 large sea scallops; 16 cherry tomatoes; 1 medium zucchini; 6 oz bison sirloin steak; 16 small button mushrooms; 1 medium bell pepper; Mediterranean Couscous Salad:; 14½ oz chicken broth; 1¼ cups quick cooking couscous; 1 medium tomato; 1 cup cucumber; ¼ cup green onion; ¼ cup feta cheese; ½ cup greek vinaigrette salad dressing

An enticing fusion of land and sea, this recipe features succulent bison and delectable scallops in an exquisite skewer format. Complemented by a vibrant Mediterranean couscous salad, each bite promises an explosion of flavors that will transport your senses to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean. It's the perfect recipe for those seeking a unique and adventurous culinary experience.

sea-and-shore-bison-kabobs-with-mediterranean-couscous-salad-recipe

Photos of Sea-and-Shore Bison Kabobs with Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe

The key ingredients that you might not regularly find in your pantry are bison sirloin steak and sea scallops. Bison, a lean and flavorful alternative to beef, might require a visit to a specialty butcher or an upscale supermarket. Sea scallops, on the other hand, are typically found in the seafood section of most grocery stores. Remember to choose large, fresh scallops for the best result.

Sea and Shore Bison Kabobs Ingredients

Olive oil: A healthy cooking oil that adds a subtle flavor.

Lemon juice: Adds acidity and brightness to the kabobs and salad.

Garlic: Provides a robust and aromatic flavor.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Thyme: Gives a subtle, earthy flavor ideal for Mediterranean dishes.

Sea scallops: Provide a sweet, delicate flavor and a tender texture.

Cherry tomatoes: Add color, sweetness and a bit of acidity.

Zucchini: Offers a mild flavor and a contrasting texture.

Bison sirloin steak: Lean and flavorful, a delicious alternative to beef.

Mushrooms: Contribute an earthy, savory flavor.

Bell pepper: Adds a crunchy texture and a sweet, tangy flavor.

Chicken broth: Infuses the couscous with a savory taste.

Couscous: A small grain that serves as the base of the salad.

Tomato: Gives the couscous salad a fresh, juicy element.

Cucumber: Adds a crisp, refreshing component to the salad.

Green onion: Provides a sharp, tangy flavor.

Feta cheese: Gives a tangy and creamy element to the salad.

Greek vinaigrette: Ties the couscous salad flavors together.

One reader, Barbabra Llamas says:

The sea and shore bison kabobs with Mediterranean couscous salad recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors. The bison kabobs were succulent and the couscous salad was a refreshing complement. The combination of the grilled skewers and the zesty salad was a true culinary delight. Highly recommended!

Barbabra Llamas

Techniques Required for Making Bison Kabobs

How to prepare the brush-on: In a small bowl, stir together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and thyme.

How to thread the kabobs: On eight 10-inch skewers, alternately thread the scallops, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini, leaving ¼-inch between pieces. On eight more 10-inch skewers, alternately thread the bison sirloin steak pieces, mushrooms, and bell pepper, leaving ¼-inch between pieces.

How to grill the bison skewers: Place the bison skewers on the rack of a covered grill directly over medium-high heat. Grill for 8 to 10 minutes or until desired doneness, turning once and brushing with the brush-on.

How to grill the scallop skewers: Grill the scallop skewers beside the bison skewers for 5 to 6 minutes or until the scallops are opaque, turning once and brushing with the brush-on.

How to make the Mediterranean couscous salad: Bring the broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it stand for 5 minutes. Fluff the couscous lightly with a fork, then transfer it to a large bowl. Let it stand at room temperature for 10 minutes. Stir in the chopped tomato, cucumber, onion, and feta cheese, and toss with the vinaigrette.

How To Make Sea-and-Shore Bison Kabobs with Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Like gourmet surf and turf, these bison kabobs are prepared with scallops, mushrooms, and bell peppers. A side of Greek-inspired couscous is also served.

Preparation: 50 minutes

Cooking: 8 minutes

Total: 58 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3tbspolive oil
3tbsplemon juice
1tsplemon zest,finely shredded
4clovesgarlic,minced
1tspsalt
1tspdried thyme,crushed
16largesea scallops,(fresh or frozen)
16cherry tomatoes
1mediumzucchini,halved lengthwise and sliced ½ inch thick
6ozbison sirloin steak,cut into 1½ inch pieces
16smallbutton mushrooms
1mediumbell pepper,(green or red), cut into 1 inch pieces

Mediterranean Couscous Salad:

14½ozchicken broth
1¼cupsquick cooking couscous
1mediumtomato,seeded and chopped
1cupcucumber,seeded, chopped
¼cupgreen onion,sliced
¼cupfeta cheese,crumbled
½cupgreek vinaigrette salad dressing

Instructions

For brush-on, stir together oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and thyme in a small bowl; set aside.
Thaw scallops, if frozen. Rinse scallops; pat dry with paper towels.
On eight 10-inch skewers, alternately thread scallops, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini, leaving ¼-inch between pieces.
On eight 10-inch skewers, alternately thread bison sirloin steak pieces, mushrooms, and bell pepper, leaving ¼-inch between pieces.
For gas or charcoal grill, place bison skewers on the rack of a covered grill directly over medium-high heat. Grill for 8 to 10 minutes or until desired doneness, turning once and brushing with brush-on.
Grill scallop skewers beside bison skewers for 5 to 6 minutes or until scallops are opaque, turning once and brushing with brush-on. Serve with Mediterranean Couscous Salad.

Mediterranean Couscous Salad:

Bring broth to boiling in a medium saucepan. Stir in couscous. Cover and remove from heat. Let stand for 5 minutes.
Fluff couscous lightly with a fork. Transfer to a large bowl. Let stand at room temperature for 10 minutes.
Stir in chopped tomato, cucumber, onion, and feta cheese. Toss with vinaigrette.

Nutrition

Calories: 376.37kcal
Fat: 18.44g
Saturated Fat: 4.41g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.90g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.84g
Carbohydrates: 31.66g
Fiber: 2.92g
Sugar: 4.68g
Protein: 21.03g
Cholesterol: 41.50mg
Sodium: 741.53mg
Calcium: 61.67mg
Potassium: 640.32mg
Iron: 1.72mg
Vitamin A: 54.49µg
Vitamin C: 34.14mg

Technique Tip for Preparing Bison Kabobs

When grilling skewers, it's important to remember that not all ingredients cook at the same rate. In this recipe, we're using bison sirloin steak and sea scallops, which have different cooking times. To ensure everything is cooked to perfection, thread similar ingredients on the same skewer. This allows you to control the cooking time for each skewer, preventing over or undercooking. Also, leaving a ¼-inch space between each piece on the skewer ensures even heat distribution and cooking.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Sea and Shore Bison Kabobs with Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Prep ahead: Marinate the bison and scallops the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

One-step seasoning: Use the same seasoning for both the bison and scallops to streamline the prep process.

Efficient skewering: Pre-skewer the bison and scallops the night before, making it easier to grill the next day.

Quick-cook couscous: Opt for quick-cooking couscous to reduce the overall cooking time for the Mediterranean couscous salad.

Chop in advance: Pre-chop the vegetables for the couscous salad ahead of time to cut down on prep time when assembling the dish.

Grill all at once: Utilize the grill space efficiently by grilling the bison skewers and scallop skewers simultaneously to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Sea-and-Shore Bison Kabobs with Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
bison sirloin steak - Substitute with beef sirloin steak: Beef sirloin steak can be used as a substitute for bison sirloin steak, providing a similar texture and flavor profile.
couscous - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa can be used as a gluten-free alternative to couscous, offering a similar texture and nutty flavor.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a flavorful base for the couscous salad.
feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese can be used as a substitute for feta cheese, offering a tangy and creamy flavor to the Mediterranean couscous salad.

Presentation Tips for Sea and Shore Bison Kabobs

Elevate the kabobs on skewers: Skewer the bison and sea ingredients separately, and present them on long, elegant skewers to showcase the beautiful colors and textures of the dish.
Create a vibrant couscous bed: Arrange the Mediterranean couscous salad on the plate in a circular motion, creating a vibrant and colorful bed for the kabobs to rest on.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley and mint to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a few delicate edible flowers strategically around the plate to add a touch of elegance and a subtle floral note to the dish.
Drizzle with a balsamic reduction: Create an artistic drizzle of balsamic reduction on the plate to add a touch of sweetness and a beautiful, glossy finish to the dish.
Use elegant serving platters: Present the kabobs and couscous salad on elegant serving platters to add a touch of sophistication to the overall presentation.
Incorporate artistic plate painting: Use reduced balsamic to create a beautiful and artistic design on the plate, adding a touch of creativity and sophistication to the dish.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For a luxurious touch, consider adding a delicate and edible gold leaf to the plate for a touch of opulence and elegance.

Essential Tools for Making Bison Kabobs with Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking or roasting food.
Grill: A device used for cooking food over an open flame or heat source.
Skewers: Long, narrow metal or wooden sticks used to hold and cook food, often used for making kebabs.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and a lid, used for cooking sauces, boiling water, or heating liquids.
Gas or charcoal grill: A cooking appliance that uses either gas or charcoal to produce heat for grilling food.
Fork: A utensil with prongs used for picking up and eating food.
Paper towels: Absorbent paper used for drying or cleaning food and surfaces.
Brush: A cooking utensil with bristles used for applying oil, marinades, or sauces to food.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients together.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, or pureeing food.
Skewers: Long, narrow metal or wooden sticks used to hold and cook food, often used for making kebabs.
Spatula: A flat cooking utensil used for flipping and lifting food items.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and a lid, used for cooking sauces, boiling water, or heating liquids.

Storing and Freezing Bison Kabobs with Mediterranean Couscous Salad

To store leftover bison kabobs, remove the meat and vegetables from the skewers and place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
If you have leftover couscous salad, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together, making it even more delicious the next day.
For longer storage, you can freeze the bison kabobs. Place the cooled kabobs (with meat and vegetables still on the skewers) in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. Freeze for up to 2 months.
To freeze the couscous salad, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some room at the top for expansion. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Note that the texture of the vegetables may change slightly after freezing.
When ready to enjoy the frozen bison kabobs, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
To serve the frozen couscous salad, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Fluff the couscous with a fork and stir in a little extra olive oil or vinaigrette to refresh the flavors before serving.

How To Reheat Leftover Bison Kabobs

To reheat leftover sea and shore bison kabobs, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the kabobs on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Brush them lightly with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of dried thyme to help revive the flavors. Cover the kabobs loosely with foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the kabobs on a stovetop grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Brush the kabobs with the olive oil mixture mentioned above and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and have a slight char.
For the mediterranean couscous salad, transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the couscous from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the salad is heated to your liking.
If you prefer, you can also reheat the couscous salad in a skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or water to the pan to help moisten the couscous and prevent it from sticking. Stir the salad occasionally until it is heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
To maintain the texture and flavor of the feta cheese and vegetables in the salad, you can opt to remove them before reheating the couscous. Once the couscous is heated, stir the feta and vegetables back in, allowing the residual heat to warm them slightly.
When reheating the kabobs and couscous salad, be sure to check the internal temperature of the bison and scallops to ensure they reach a safe temperature of 145°F (63°C) and 130°F (54°C), respectively.

Interesting Fact About Bison Kabobs

The bison in this recipe is a lean and nutritious alternative to traditional beef, offering a rich, meaty flavor. Bison meat is lower in fat and calories compared to beef, making it a heart-healthy choice. It's also a great source of protein, iron, and other essential nutrients. Bison is a sustainable and environmentally friendly option, as it's often grass-fed and raised without hormones or antibiotics. Incorporating bison into your diet not only adds variety to your meals but also supports sustainable farming practices.

Is Making Bison Kabobs with Mediterranean Couscous Salad Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this sea and shore bison kabobs with Mediterranean couscous salad recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients in your area. While sea scallops and bison sirloin steak can be pricier, the use of seasonal vegetables and pantry staples like couscous and olive oil can balance the overall cost. Considering the nutritional value and flavor profile, this recipe rates a solid 8. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $40-$50, making it a reasonable option for a special family meal.

Is This Bison Kabob Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This sea and shore bison kabobs with Mediterranean couscous salad recipe is a relatively healthy choice. Here's why:

The recipe includes lean protein sources like bison sirloin steak and scallops, which are low in fat and high in essential nutrients.
The kabobs feature a variety of vegetables, including cherry tomatoes, zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers, providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
The Mediterranean couscous salad incorporates whole grain couscous, which is a good source of complex carbohydrates and fiber.
The use of olive oil, lemon juice, and Greek vinaigrette dressing adds healthy fats and flavors to the dish.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of salt used in the brush-on marinade to lower the overall sodium content.
Opt for low-sodium chicken broth in the couscous salad to further reduce the sodium levels.
Increase the proportion of vegetables to meat on the kabobs to boost the fiber and nutrient content while reducing the overall calorie density.
Use a whole wheat or quinoa-based couscous to increase the fiber and protein content of the salad.
Incorporate additional fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to enhance the flavors without relying on excessive salt or fat.

By making these small adjustments, you can elevate the nutritional value of this already healthy and delicious meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Bison Kabob Recipe

The sea and shore bison kabobs with Mediterranean couscous salad recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The marinade for the kabobs infuses the scallops and bison with a zesty and aromatic essence, while the grilling process adds a smoky depth. The Mediterranean couscous salad provides a refreshing and vibrant accompaniment, with the feta cheese and vinaigrette adding a tangy and savory note. This dish is a perfect balance of land and sea, and the presentation on skewers adds a fun and interactive element to the dining experience. It's a sophisticated yet approachable dish that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Sea-and-Shore Bison Kabobs with Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the sea and shore bison kabobs.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, a delightful accompaniment to the Mediterranean couscous salad.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with honey, adding a touch of natural sweetness to balance the flavors of the sea and shore bison kabobs.

Similar Recipes to Sea and Shore Bison Kabobs

Savory Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry: This savory stir-fry is packed with tender beef and a variety of colorful vegetables, all coated in a delicious sauce that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Citrus Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa: This refreshing and flavorful grilled chicken dish is topped with a vibrant mango salsa that adds a burst of citrusy sweetness to every bite.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in this creamy and comforting risotto dish, filled with earthy mushrooms and rich, savory flavors that will warm you from the inside out.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Sea and Shore Bison Kabobs

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a mouthwatering appetizer by stuffing large mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Transport your taste buds to the tropics with these crispy, golden-brown shrimp coated in a sweet and savory coconut breading. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for a delightful appetizer that will leave your guests craving more.

Desserts:

Decadent Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Tangy Lemon Tart: Savor the zesty and refreshing flavor of a tangy lemon tart, with a buttery and flaky crust. The perfect balance of sweet and tart, this dessert is a delightful way to end any meal.

Why trust this Sea-and-Shore Bison Kabobs with Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe:

This recipe offers a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures, combining succulent sea scallops, tender bison sirloin steak, and vibrant Mediterranean couscous salad. The use of fresh ingredients such as lemon juice, olive oil, and thyme ensures a burst of zesty and aromatic notes. The meticulous grilling process and the harmonious pairing of ingredients showcase a deep understanding of culinary techniques and flavor profiles. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe to deliver a memorable dining experience that celebrates the essence of sea and shore cuisine.

Share your thoughts on this Sea-and-Shore Bison Kabobs with Mediterranean Couscous Salad recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum. Join the conversation and let us know if you have any tips or variations to share!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of meat for the kabobs?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of meat for the kabobs. You can try using chicken, beef, or even lamb if you prefer.

Can I substitute the couscous with another grain?

Absolutely! If you're not a fan of couscous, you can easily substitute it with quinoa, bulgur, or even rice for a different texture and flavor.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, you can replace the bison and scallops with tofu or seitan. You can also add more vegetables like eggplant, squash, or onions to the kabobs for a delicious vegetarian option.

Can I prepare the kabobs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the kabobs ahead of time. Simply assemble the skewers and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill. The Mediterranean couscous salad can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge until serving.

Can I grill the kabobs indoors if I don't have an outdoor grill?

If you don't have an outdoor grill, you can definitely grill the kabobs indoors using a grill pan or a broiler. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and keep an eye on the kabobs to prevent them from burning.