Halloumi & Cranberry Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Halloumi & Cranberry Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines soft, grilled halloumi cheese with fluffy couscous, sweet cranberries, and crunchy cucumber. Topped with a bright mint-lemon dressing, this salad is perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy meal or a dish to impress your friends, this salad has it all!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for many reasons! First, it is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. The halloumi adds an amazing flavor and texture while the cranberries provide a touch of sweetness. The fresh herbs and tangy dressing bring everything together, creating a balanced and delicious dish. Plus, it is a healthy option packed with vitamins and nutrients.
How to Make Halloumi & Cranberry Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Ingredients:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
- 8 oz (225g) halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Directions:
- In a bowl, pour boiling water or broth over the couscous. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the couscous with a fork.
- While the couscous steams, heat a grill pan over medium heat. Grill the halloumi slices for 2–3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the couscous, cranberries, cucumber, parsley, and mint. Add the grilled halloumi on top.
- Drizzle with the mint-lemon dressing, toss gently, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm or chilled.
How to Serve Halloumi & Cranberry Couscous Salad
You can serve this salad in a big bowl for sharing or in individual plates for a more personal touch. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal. The salad keeps well, so you can make it ahead of time and have it ready for lunch or dinner.
How to Store Halloumi & Cranberry Couscous Salad
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Before serving leftovers, give it a good mix and check if you need to add more dressing.
Tips to Make Halloumi & Cranberry Couscous Salad
- Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- You can swap halloumi with feta cheese if you’re looking for a different taste.
- For extra crunch, consider adding nuts such as almonds or walnuts.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more honey or syrup as needed.
Variation
Feel free to customize your salad! You can add other ingredients like roasted vegetables, chickpeas, or any seasonal fruits to make it unique. If you prefer a vegan option, you can omit the halloumi and replace it with grilled vegetables or plant-based cheese.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to keep the salad fresh.
2. Is Halloumi cheese vegetarian?
Yes, halloumi cheese is made from sheep’s and goat’s milk and is suitable for vegetarians.
3. What can I substitute for couscous?
If you want a gluten-free option, you can use quinoa or rice instead of couscous. Just prepare it according to package instructions.
Enjoy making and sharing this Halloumi & Cranberry Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing! It is sure to delight everyone who tries it.
