Coucous Salad Recipe Feta

Couscous salad with feta is a quick and healthy dish. Start by cooking 1 ½ cups of couscous in 1 ½ cups of water or broth for 5 minutes. While it cooks, chop assorted veggies like grape tomatoes and cucumber. Fluff the couscous after 2 minutes, then mix in 1 ¼ cups of crumbled feta and your veggies. For dressing, combine balsamic vinegar, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Plus, there’s even more to explore.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and healthy meal option, you’ll love this couscous salad recipe. It takes only 12-20 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy days. You can serve it warm or cold, based on your preference. This salad isn’t only delicious but also nutritionally balanced, offering vitamins A, C, B6, and B12, along with a good mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Plus, it contains dietary fiber for digestive health. The recipe is highly flexible; you can customize it with various vegetables, proteins, and dressings. Additionally, pearl couscous is an excellent base that adds a unique texture to the dish. It stores well in the fridge, allowing for easy meal prep and portability. Overall, it’s an ideal choice for anyone seeking convenience and nutrition.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– 1 1⁄2 cups couscous
– 1 1⁄2 cups water or broth
– 1 1⁄4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, diced
– 1 cup courgette, diced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup arugula
– 1/4 cup shallots, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Begin by bringing 1 1⁄2 cups of water or broth to a boil in a medium-sized pot.

1. Once boiling, add the couscous, stir briefly, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the couscous absorbs the liquid.

2. While the couscous is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Chop the cucumber, courgette, grape tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes.

3. Finely chop the shallots, and roughly chop the basil, parsley, and mint.

4. Once the couscous has cooked, remove it from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for an additional 2 minutes.

5. Then, use a fork to fluff the couscous gently.

6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fluffed couscous with the chopped vegetables, arugula, and crumbled feta cheese.

7. In a separate bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.

8. Pour the dressing over the couscous salad and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.

Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your couscous salad, consider letting it sit for a few minutes after mixing in the dressing to allow the flavors to meld. Additionally, this dish’s versatility as a side dish or main makes it a great option for different occasions.

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or herbs based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

This dish also stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.

Final Thoughts

When you consider making couscous salad, it’s important to acknowledge not just its delicious taste but also its health benefits and cultural significance.

Couscous is rich in selenium, supporting immune function, and it’s a great source of plant-based protein. This helps reduce the risks of stroke and heart disease. Additionally, couscous contains fiber, which aids weight loss and lowers cholesterol levels.

Culturally, couscous is central to North African cuisine, symbolizing abundance and celebration. It’s a cherished dish prepared with pride, representing family gatherings and togetherness.

Historically, couscous originated from the Berbers and is known for its affordability. Its quick cooking time and versatility make it a practical choice for various meals, making it suitable for salads, sides, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Feta Cheese With Another Cheese?

Yes, you can substitute feta cheese with options like goat cheese, halloumi, or even labneh. Each alternative offers a unique flavor and texture, allowing you to enjoy your dish without compromising taste.

How Long Does Couscous Salad Last in the Fridge?

Like a fleeting summer breeze, couscous salad lasts just 1-2 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container, and watch for signs of spoilage like an off smell or mold before enjoying.

Is This Salad Suitable for Meal Prep?

Yes, this salad’s perfect for meal prep. You can store it in the fridge for up to five days, layer the ingredients for freshness, and keep the dressing separate to maintain flavor. Enjoy!

Can I Add Protein to This Salad?

Absolutely, you can add protein to your salad! Consider chickpeas, lentils, or even shrimp. Tofu and pumpkin seeds are great vegetarian options. Mix and match to boost nutrition and flavor based on your preferences!

What Can I Serve With Couscous Salad?

You can serve grilled shrimp, roasted chicken, or flavorful lamb skewers alongside your couscous salad. Pair it with Greek-style yogurt marinated chicken, or enjoy it with Middle Eastern lamb koftas for a delightful meal.