Halloumi & Cranberry Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Introduction
Halloumi & Cranberry Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing is a flavorful and refreshing dish that brings together the unique taste of halloumi cheese, sweet cranberries, and fresh herbs. This salad is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for any meal. Whether you are looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a crowd-pleaser for a picnic, this salad has got you covered.
Why Make This Recipe
This salad is a great choice for several reasons. First, it packs a wonderful mix of flavors and textures, from the creamy halloumi to the sweet cranberries. Second, it is quick to make, taking only about 20 minutes from start to finish. Additionally, it is a versatile dish that can be served warm or cold, making it perfect for any occasion. Plus, the mint-lemon dressing adds a bright and zesty touch that enhances the whole dish.
How to Make Halloumi & Cranberry Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Ingredients:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1¼ cups boiling water
- 7 oz halloumi cheese, sliced
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup chopped cucumber
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- Olive oil, for grilling
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
- 1½ tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint (for dressing)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Place couscous in a large bowl. Pour boiling water over it, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. After that, fluff the couscous with a fork and let it cool.
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Brush the halloumi slices with olive oil and grill them for 2–3 minutes per side until they are golden brown. Once done, cut the halloumi into bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth and mixed well.
- To the cooled couscous, add cranberries, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint. Toss all the ingredients together.
- Add the grilled halloumi to the bowl and drizzle the dressing over everything. Gently toss all the ingredients to combine.
- You can serve the salad immediately or chill it for 15 minutes to let the flavors blend.
How to Serve Halloumi & Cranberry Couscous Salad
Halloumi & Cranberry Couscous Salad can be served as a main dish or as a side. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be the star of a vegetarian meal. You can also plate it in individual servings or serve it in a big bowl for sharing at a gathering. Either way, it looks vibrant and inviting!
How to Store Halloumi & Cranberry Couscous Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the halloumi may lose some of its texture when stored. If possible, it is best enjoyed fresh.
Tips to Make Halloumi & Cranberry Couscous Salad
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the dressing for the best flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or grated carrots for extra crunch.
- If you want more protein, consider adding chickpeas or grilled chicken to the salad.
Variation
You can change up the dressing by adding different herbs like basil or cilantro for a unique twist. You can also use quinoa instead of couscous for a gluten-free option.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the halloumi until you are ready to serve.
Q2: Is halloumi cheese vegetarian?
A2: Yes, halloumi is made from milk and is generally considered vegetarian-friendly, but check for any animal rennet if you follow a strict vegetarian diet.
Q3: Can I substitute ingredients in the salad?
A3: Absolutely! This salad is versatile, so you can swap out dried cranberries for raisins or apricots and use other fresh herbs like dill or chives.
