Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brings together delicious flavors and textures. The salty, chewy halloumi cheese pairs beautifully with the sweet and tart pomegranate seeds, while the light mint-lemon dressing adds a zesty kick. This salad is perfect for a light meal, a picnic, or as a side dish.
Why Make This Recipe
Making this Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad is a great choice for several reasons. It is quick and easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking time. The combination of ingredients offers a delightful mix of flavors, making it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthy option for lunch or dinner.
How to Make Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 block (7 oz) halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a bowl, combine couscous and boiling water. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes until the couscous absorbs the water. Fluff with a fork.
- Grill or pan-fry the halloumi slices until golden on both sides.
- In a large bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, pomegranate seeds, and chopped mint.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the couscous mixture and toss to combine.
- Serve the salad topped with grilled halloumi.
How to Serve Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad
You can serve this salad warm or at room temperature. It makes an excellent main dish for a light lunch, or you can serve it as a side at dinner. Garnish with extra mint leaves for a fresh touch.
How to Store Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. If you are storing it, keep the grilled halloumi separate until ready to serve to maintain its texture.
Tips to Make Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad
- Make sure to use boiling water to properly cook the couscous.
- If you can’t find fresh pomegranate seeds, you can use dried pomegranate or a splash of pomegranate juice for flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables or nuts for extra flavor and crunch, such as cucumber or pine nuts.
Variation
You can switch up the cheese by using feta instead of halloumi for a creamier flavor. Adding different herbs, like parsley or cilantro, can also change the flavor profile of the salad.
FAQs
1. What can I substitute for couscous?
You can use quinoa, bulgur wheat, or even rice as a substitute for couscous.
2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just remember to add the halloumi just before serving.
3. Is this salad gluten-free?
No, couscous is made from wheat, making it not gluten-free. However, you can use gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice instead.
Enjoy the delightful flavors and simplicity of this Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad! It’s a dish you will want to make again and again.
