Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Introduction
Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing is a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any meal. This salad blends the nutty flavor of couscous with the salty goodness of grilled halloumi cheese and the sweet crunch of pomegranate seeds. Toss in some fresh herbs and a zesty dressing, and you’ve got a winner!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make. It combines simple ingredients to create a healthy and vibrant dish. You can serve it as a main dish or a side, making it versatile for any occasion. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, thanks to the fresh veggies and herbs.
How to Make Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Ingredients:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 7 oz halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1/3 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Mint-Lemon Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint
- Salt, to taste
Directions:
- In a heatproof bowl, combine couscous and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Pour boiling water over the couscous, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork and let it cool.
- Grill or pan-sear halloumi slices over medium heat for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden and crisp. Let it cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine couscous, pomegranate seeds, cucumber, mint, parsley, and halloumi.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad
You can serve this salad as a light lunch or dinner. It also works well as a side dish for grilled meats or fish. For an extra touch, add some extra pomegranate seeds on top when serving.
How to Store Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad can last for about 2-3 days. If you plan to keep it for a while, consider storing the dressing separately and mixing it just before serving for the best flavor.
Tips to Make Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad
- Use fresh herbs for the best taste.
- Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup depending on your sweetness preference.
- Try adding other veggies like bell peppers or spinach for more crunch and color.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein. You can also swap the pomegranate seeds for dried cranberries for a different flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the couscous and dressing ahead of time and mix them shortly before serving.
2. What can I use instead of halloumi cheese?
Feta cheese can be a good substitute if you want a similar salty flavor.
3. Is this salad gluten-free?
No, couscous is made from wheat. If you need a gluten-free option, try using quinoa instead.
