Edamame and Asparagus Couscous Salad

1 Cup of Stock-supplements Qi
1 Cup of Couscous-supplements qi and nourishes heart and calms shen.
1/4 Cup of Shallots, finely chopped-LU LI-releases exterior, drains damp, invigorates blood
1 Small Red Onion-LU ST LI clears heat and resolves toxicity, transforms phlegm and damp
1 tbsp of olive oil-moistens intestines
1 bunch of Asparagus- LU SP KD strengthens spleen, nourishes yin and relieves toxicity
2 tbsp of Balsamic Vinegar- LV invigorates blood, clears toxins, astringes
1 tsp tamari or soy sauce-SP ST KD harmonizes middle jiao, clears heat
1tsp maple syrup-SP LU LI boosts Qi
1 cup of edamame beans-strengthens spleen, promotes urination, and resolves toxicity

In a small pot, cook couscous as instructed on box except using stock instead of water.  While cooking couscous, in a seperate saute pan, cook the shallots and onions on medium heat untill transluscent.  Add asparagus and cook for another 4-6 minutes.  Turn of heat.  Stir in vinager, soy sauce, maple syrup and edamame and let sit for 5 minutes.  When couscous is done, toss it in with the vegetables.  Serve warm or cold. 

Overall, this recipe seems to be clearing phlegm from the lung, releasing the exterior, clearing heat and nourishing yin.  Feeling like a cold is coming on?  Do you get frequent colds, or have a phlegmy cough?  Try this recipe!