Caramelized Shallot & Herbed Goat Cheese Couscous Salad is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized shallots with the creamy tang of herbed goat cheese. This salad is not just tasty; it’s also easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you want a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, this salad fits the bill.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for many reasons. First, it is versatile; you can serve it warm or cold, making it suitable for any season. Second, it uses simple ingredients that are easy to find. Lastly, the combination of flavors—sweet shallots, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts—creates a tasty experience that everyone will enjoy.
How to Make Caramelized Shallot & Herbed Goat Cheese Couscous Salad
Making Caramelized Shallot & Herbed Goat Cheese Couscous Salad is simple and requires just a few steps. You will cook the couscous, caramelize the shallots, and then mix everything together. Follow the directions closely for a perfect outcome.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl couscous
- 3 large shallots, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- 100g (3.5 oz) herbed goat cheese, crumbled
- 1 handful arugula or baby spinach (optional)
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or walnuts
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Cook pearl couscous according to the package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside to cool.
- In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter and olive oil.
- Add the sliced shallots and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring often, until deep golden and caramelized, about 20–25 minutes.
- Stir in balsamic vinegar and cook for 1–2 minutes more.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked couscous with the caramelized shallots, lemon zest, and a pinch of pepper.
- If using, add arugula and gently mix in the crumbled herbed goat cheese.
- Top with toasted nuts before serving. Serve warm or chilled.
How to Serve Caramelized Shallot & Herbed Goat Cheese Couscous Salad
You can serve this salad warm for a comforting dish or chilled for a refreshing experience. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish and can also be a great side dish for a picnic or potluck. For a complete meal, add some protein like chicken or beans.
How to Store Caramelized Shallot & Herbed Goat Cheese Couscous Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If the salad gets too dry, you can drizzle a little olive oil or balsamic vinegar before serving.
Tips to Make Caramelized Shallot & Herbed Goat Cheese Couscous Salad
- Make sure to cook the shallots slowly; this is key to getting them nicely caramelized.
- You can adjust the amount of lemon zest and nuts to suit your taste.
- Feel free to experiment with different greens or nuts based on what you have on hand.
Variation
You can add roasted vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, to the salad for a different flavor and texture. If you want a more filling version, toss in some cooked protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
FAQs
Can I use regular couscous instead of pearl couscous?
Yes, you can use regular couscous, but the cooking time may differ. Just follow the instructions on the package.
How can I make this salad vegan?
You can replace the goat cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and use olive oil instead of butter for the caramelized shallots.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time. Just keep the nuts and greens separate until you are ready to serve for the best texture.
