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Pearl Couscous Salad

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A refreshing Mediterranean-inspired dish, this Pearl Couscous Salad combines chewy couscous pearls with crisp vegetables, feta, olives, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing. Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or make-ahead meal.

Ingredients

  • Pearl Couscous: 1 ½ cups, uncooked – The chewy, nutty base of the salad.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved – Adds juicy sweetness and color.
  • Cucumber: 1 medium, diced – Brings cool crunch.
  • Red Bell Pepper: 1, diced – Adds sweetness and vibrant hue.
  • Red Onion: ½ small, finely diced – Sharp bite to balance flavors.
  • Feta Cheese: ½ cup, crumbled – Adds salty creaminess.
  • Kalamata Olives: ½ cup, pitted and halved – Brings briny depth.
  • Fresh Parsley: ½ cup, chopped – Herbaceous freshness.
  • Fresh Mint: 2 tablespoons, chopped – A refreshing lift.
  • Olive Oil: ¼ cup – Forms the base of the dressing.
  • Lemon Juice: 3 tablespoons, freshly squeezed – Adds zesty brightness.
  • Honey: 1 teaspoon – Balances acidity with a hint of sweetness.
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon – Enhances flavors.
  • Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon – Adds a mild kick.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Equipment: In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Add the couscous, toast for 2 minutes, then pour in 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to simmer, and cook for 8–10 minutes until tender. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Place cooled couscous into a large mixing bowl.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, feta, olives, parsley, and mint.
  5. Cook to Perfection: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss gently.
  6. Finishing Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning. Chill for 15–20 minutes if time allows for flavors to meld.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve cold or at room temperature, garnished with extra herbs and a sprinkle of feta.

Notes

  • Toast couscous in olive oil before boiling for extra nuttiness.
  • Always use fresh herbs for maximum flavor.
  • Chill before serving to let flavors meld.

Nutrition

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