Couscous Salad with Roasted Chickpeas & Herbed Yogurt
Couscous Salad with Roasted Chickpeas & Herbed Yogurt is a vibrant and tasty dish that’s perfect for any meal. This salad combines fluffy couscous with crispy roasted chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a creamy herbed yogurt dressing. It is not only colorful but also packed with nutrients and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a side dish for dinner, this salad is sure to satisfy.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great because it is simple and quick to prepare. It is healthy, making it perfect for anyone looking to eat better without sacrificing taste. The contrast of crispy chickpeas and creamy yogurt adds delightful textures to the dish. Plus, it can be served cold or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
How to Make Couscous Salad with Roasted Chickpeas & Herbed Yogurt
Ingredients:
- 200 g couscous
- 1 can (400 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 10 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 150 g Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Toss the chickpeas with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet and roast them for 20–25 minutes until they are crispy.
- Prepare the couscous according to the package instructions and let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the couscous, roasted chickpeas, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley.
- In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped dill, and the remaining olive oil to create the herbed yogurt dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve Couscous Salad with Roasted Chickpeas & Herbed Yogurt
This salad can be served on its own as a light meal or as a side dish. Consider pairing it with grilled meats or fish for a complete dinner. It is also a fantastic option for lunch boxes, making your midday meal exciting and nutritious.
How to Store Couscous Salad with Roasted Chickpeas & Herbed Yogurt
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for up to 3 days. If the salad looks too dry after being stored, feel free to add a bit more of the herbed yogurt dressing before serving.
Tips to Make Couscous Salad with Roasted Chickpeas & Herbed Yogurt
- For extra flavor, let the roasted chickpeas cool slightly before adding them to the salad. This gives them a crunchier texture.
- You can use any vegetables you have on hand such as bell peppers or radishes to customize this salad.
- Feel free to adjust the spices in the chickpeas according to your taste.
Variation
You can turn this salad into a more filling meal by adding cooked quinoa or bulgur next to the couscous. Adding feta cheese will also give it a nice tangy flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. However, add the herbed yogurt dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
Q: Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?
A: Yes, you can make a vegan version of this salad by replacing Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative.
Q: Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Just soak and cook the dried chickpeas beforehand. This will require extra time but can add even more flavor to the dish.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Couscous Salad with Roasted Chickpeas & Herbed Yogurt!
