Caramelized Shallot & Herbed Goat Cheese Couscous Salad
Caramelized Shallot & Herbed Goat Cheese Couscous Salad is a delightful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light meal or as a side at any gathering. The combination of sweet caramelized shallots, creamy herbed goat cheese, and tender couscous creates a satisfying and tasty experience. This salad not only looks vibrant but also tastes amazing!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic choice because it’s simple to make and packed with great flavors. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy healthy ingredients with minimal effort. The couscous cooks quickly, and you can prepare the caramelized shallots in just a few minutes. Plus, it can be served warm or chilled, making it versatile for any occasion.
How to Make Caramelized Shallot & Herbed Goat Cheese Couscous Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pearl couscous
- 1 3/4 cups water or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 large shallots, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 4 oz herbed goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for topping
Directions:
- In a saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the couscous and toast for 2–3 minutes until it is lightly golden.
- Pour in the water or broth, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the couscous is tender. Fluff with a fork and let it cool slightly.
- Meanwhile, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over low heat.
- Add the shallots and cook for 10–12 minutes until they are soft and golden.
- Stir in the balsamic vinegar and sugar, cooking for another 2–3 minutes until the shallots are nicely caramelized.
- In a large bowl, combine the couscous, caramelized shallots, herbed goat cheese, parsley, and lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, tossing gently to combine.
- Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled. Garnish with toasted nuts if desired.
How to Serve Caramelized Shallot & Herbed Goat Cheese Couscous Salad
This salad can be served in a large bowl as a main dish or portioned out as a side for a lovely family meal. You can also arrange it on individual plates for a fancy touch when entertaining guests. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
How to Store Caramelized Shallot & Herbed Goat Cheese Couscous Salad
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad will keep well for up to three days. The flavors may deepen over time, making it taste even better the next day!
Tips to Make Caramelized Shallot & Herbed Goat Cheese Couscous Salad
- When caramelizing the shallots, keep the heat low to avoid burning them.
- For added crunch, toast the pine nuts or slivered almonds before using them as a topping.
- Feel free to use any fresh herbs you like in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.
Variation
You can add other vegetables like roasted bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for more color and taste. If you want a different protein, chickpeas can be tossed in for extra nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular couscous instead of pearl couscous?
Yes, you can! Regular couscous will work, but the cooking time may vary. Check the package for cooking instructions.
2. How can I make this dish vegan?
To make it vegan, skip the goat cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also add more vegetables for a heartier salad.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the couscous, caramelize the shallots, and combine all ingredients a few hours in advance. Just keep it in the fridge until serving.
