Grilled Watermelon & Feta Couscous Salad
Introduction
Grilled Watermelon & Feta Couscous Salad is a refreshing and unique dish that brightens up any meal. This salad combines the sweet taste of grilled watermelon with the salty flavor of feta cheese and the chewy texture of couscous. It’s a perfect summer dish that is easy to prepare and delightful to eat.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for many reasons. First, it’s quick to make, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, it is healthy and full of fresh ingredients. The combination of flavors—sweet watermelon, creamy feta, and zesty dressing—makes this salad a standout. Plus, it’s perfect for grilling season and can be served as a main dish or a side.
How to Make Grilled Watermelon & Feta Couscous Salad
Making this salad is simple! Follow these easy steps to create your delicious Grilled Watermelon & Feta Couscous Salad.
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
- 3 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a heatproof bowl, combine couscous and boiling water or broth. Cover it up and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff the couscous with a fork and let it cool.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Toss the watermelon cubes lightly in olive oil. Grill them for about 1-2 minutes per side, until they are charred and slightly caramelized.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the couscous, grilled watermelon, sliced red onion, and chopped mint.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Top the salad with crumbled feta and additional mint if desired.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
How to Serve Grilled Watermelon & Feta Couscous Salad
You can serve this salad as a main dish or as a side. It pairs well with grilled meats and fish. You can also enjoy it on its own for a light lunch or dinner.
How to Store Grilled Watermelon & Feta Couscous Salad
To store leftover salad, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 2-3 days. You may want to keep the feta separate until you serve it again to maintain its texture.
Tips to Make Grilled Watermelon & Feta Couscous Salad
- Make sure to use ripe watermelon for the best sweetness.
- If you want more texture, consider adding nuts like almonds or walnuts.
- For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Variation
You can customize this salad by adding other ingredients, such as corn, avocado, or even grilled shrimp for extra protein.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of grain instead of couscous?
Yes! You can use quinoa, bulgur, or even brown rice as substitutes for couscous.
2. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just remember to add the feta right before serving.
3. Can I grill the watermelon on a stovetop?
Yes! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop to achieve the same effect.
Enjoy your cooking experience with this delightful Grilled Watermelon & Feta Couscous Salad!
Grilled Watermelon & Feta Couscous Salad
Ingredients
Couscous Base
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth Use broth for added flavor.
Grilled Watermelon
- 3 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes Use ripe watermelon for the best sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For grilling the watermelon.
Salad Additions
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese Add on top before serving.
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped To enhance freshness.
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice For zesty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon honey For a touch of sweetness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- In a heatproof bowl, combine couscous and boiling water or broth. Cover it and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff the couscous with a fork and let it cool.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Grilling Watermelon
- Toss the watermelon cubes lightly in olive oil. Grill them for about 1-2 minutes per side until they are charred and slightly caramelized.
Making the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Assembling the Salad
- In a large serving bowl, combine the couscous, grilled watermelon, sliced red onion, and chopped mint.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Top the salad with crumbled feta and additional mint if desired.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
