We absolutely love Montage resorts, and there is nothing more luxurious than a summer stay at Montage Laguna Beach.

If you’ve ever dined here, you’ll know that the flavors in the cuisine are out of this world. Here is a summer recipe from Chef Craig Strong. try it out at home and pretend you are sitting oceanside at the Montage Laguna Beach.

Ras el hanout contains a complex mélange of more than 20 spices and herbs from Morocco. This blend literally means “head of the shop,” which some have taken to mean “best of the best.” This unique mix is somewhat curry-like with a spicy kick, a floral fragrance and subtle nuances within an overall robust flavor. It is extremely versatile, adding a golden color and an aromatic and enticing flavor to beef, chicken and fish. You can find the mix at www.le-sanctuaire.com.

Chef Strong suggests using this spice mix as a rub to “blacken” your meat of choice. Then finish the grilled dish with a fresh squeeze of lime. For the perfect accompaniment, he recommends his version of cous cous to complete this savory meal.

Chef Craig Strong’s Cous Cous

2 cups cous cous
2 cups chicken stock
dash of cinnamon
salt and pepper to taste
1 red bell pepper, small dice
1 squash, small dice
1 zucchini, small dice
1 clove garlic, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup golden raisins
1/4 cup almonds, toasted and sliced
2 tablespoons mint leaves, chopped

Bring chicken stock, cinnamon, salt and pepper to a boil. Add cous cous, remove from heat, cover and let stand for 20 minutes. Sauté bell pepper, squash, zucchini and garlic in olive oil. Remove vegetables from heat and add raisins, almonds and mint; mix and add to cous cous. Serve with your favorite grilled meats.

About Montage Laguna Beach
Montage, set on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific in the heart of the vibrant arts community of Laguna Beach, offers 30 acres of oceanfront luxury. The 250-room craftsman-style resort features beachfront accommodations; a 20,000-square-foot spa; destination dining at Studio; a wealth of outdoor recreation, including three pools, beach and water sports; a fine art collection; and more than 20,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space. For information and reservations, please contact Montage, toll-free, at 1-888-715-6700; or visit the Web site at www.montagelagunabeach.com.

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