Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing is a fresh and tasty dish. It combines the chewy texture of couscous with the salty flavor of halloumi cheese and the sweet burst of pomegranate seeds. This salad is perfect for lunch, a side dish, or even a light dinner. The mint-lemon dressing adds a bright touch that brings all the flavors together.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to make. It is packed with nutrients and colors, making it a great addition to any meal. The combination of ingredients offers a mix of textures—from the crispy halloumi to the crunchy cucumber and juicy pomegranate seeds. Plus, it’s perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying on a sunny day.
How to Make Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pearl (Israeli) couscous
- 6 oz halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Olive oil, for frying
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Cook the pearl couscous according to package instructions. Drain it and set aside to cool.
- While the couscous is cooking, heat a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the sliced halloumi and fry for 1–2 minutes on each side until golden and crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice and zest, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled couscous, pomegranate seeds, cucumber, mint, and parsley. Drizzle with the dressing and toss everything to combine.
- Top the salad with warm halloumi slices and serve immediately.
How to Serve Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad
Serve this salad warm or at room temperature. It makes a great main dish or a side salad for grilled meats or fish. Garnish with extra pomegranate seeds or mint leaves for a lovely presentation.
How to Store Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s best enjoyed soon after making it.
Tips to Make Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad
- Make sure to cool the couscous completely before mixing with other ingredients; this helps maintain the crunchiness of the salad.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less honey or maple syrup according to your taste.
- Don’t skip on the fresh herbs—they add wonderful flavor!
Variations
You can mix and match the ingredients according to your preference. Try adding roasted vegetables, chickpeas, or nuts for extra protein and crunch. You can also use feta cheese if you can’t find halloumi.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular couscous instead of pearl couscous?
Yes, you can use regular couscous, but the texture will be different. Pearl couscous is chewier.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
No, because couscous is made from wheat. However, you can substitute it with gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice.
3. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the dressing until right before serving to keep everything fresh.
This Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad is an easy and delightful dish that will impress your friends and family while being good for you! Enjoy making and sharing it!
