Grilled Zucchini & Lemon Labneh Couscous Salad
Introduction
Grilled Zucchini & Lemon Labneh Couscous Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for warm days. With its combination of grilled vegetables, creamy labneh, and zesty lemon, this salad offers a burst of flavors that will brighten any meal. It’s not only easy to prepare but also a great way to enjoy healthy ingredients.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, it’s quick to make, taking only about 20 minutes from start to finish. Second, it is packed with nutrients from zucchini, mint, and whole grain couscous. Finally, it is versatile; you can serve it as a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or even as a picnic staple. With its creamy labneh and zesty lemon, every bite is a delicious delight!
How to Make Grilled Zucchini & Lemon Labneh Couscous Salad
Follow these simple steps for a delicious Grilled Zucchini & Lemon Labneh Couscous Salad.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups boiling water
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup labneh
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
Directions:
- Place couscous in a large bowl. Pour boiling water over the couscous, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff it with a fork afterwards.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Brush the zucchini slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then season them with salt and pepper. Grill the slices for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
- In a small bowl, mix the labneh with the lemon zest and juice.
- In a large bowl, combine the couscous, grilled zucchini, and chopped mint. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the mixture and toss gently.
- To serve, top the salad with dollops of lemon labneh and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts.
How to Serve Grilled Zucchini & Lemon Labneh Couscous Salad
Serve this salad warm or at room temperature. It can be a main dish or a side. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. This salad can also be enjoyed on its own for a light lunch.
How to Store Grilled Zucchini & Lemon Labneh Couscous Salad
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. However, the zucchini might lose some of its crispness over time.
Tips to Make Grilled Zucchini & Lemon Labneh Couscous Salad
- For added flavor, marinate the zucchini in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before grilling.
- If you can’t find labneh, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for more variety and color.
Variation
You can customize this salad by adding proteins such as chickpeas or grilled shrimp. Additionally, try substituting the mint with basil or parsley for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use other grains instead of couscous?
Yes, you can substitute couscous with quinoa or bulgur wheat for a different texture and taste.
2. What if I can’t find labneh?
If labneh is hard to find, plain Greek yogurt or sour cream works well as a substitute.
3. How do I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the couscous and grill the zucchini in advance. Just combine everything before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.
Enjoy your delicious Grilled Zucchini & Lemon Labneh Couscous Salad!
