Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Introduction
Looking for a refreshing and tasty salad? The Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing is a delightful choice. This salad is not only colorful but also packed with flavor. With the creaminess of grilled halloumi, sweet bursts of pomegranate, and a zesty mint-lemon dressing, every bite is a treat!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for many reasons. It is quick to prepare and offers a healthy option for lunch or dinner. The combination of ingredients like couscous, fresh vegetables, and cheese makes it filling and satisfying. Plus, it’s great for gatherings or as a side dish. The bright flavors and colorful presentation will impress your family and friends.
How to Make Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Making this salad is simple and quick. Here’s how you can do it.
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups boiling water
- 7 oz halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
- 2 tablespoons chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- Olive oil, for grilling
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
- 1 1/2 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 bowl. Pour boiling water over it, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork and let it cool.
- While the couscous is cooling, heat a grill pan over medium heat.
- Brush halloumi with a bit of olive oil and grill for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden and crisp.
- Cut the grilled halloumi into bite-sized cubes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine couscous, pomegranate seeds, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
- Add the grilled halloumi and drizzle with the dressing.
- Toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad
You can serve this salad warm or cold. It makes a great main dish for lunch or a side dish for dinner. Pair it with grilled meats or fish for a complete meal. Garnish with extra mint or pomegranate seeds for a lovely presentation.
How to Store Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the halloumi may lose some of its crispness after storing.
Tips to Make Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad
- Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Adjust the dressing ingredients to your taste. If you prefer it sweeter, add a little more honey.
- Try to cut the vegetables evenly for a better presentation.
Variation
You can customize this salad based on your preferences. For added protein, consider adding chickpeas or grilled chicken. You can also switch the pomegranate seeds with other fruits like orange segments or berries if you like.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of cheese instead of halloumi?
Yes, you can use feta cheese or any other cheese you enjoy, but the texture and flavor will be different.
2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the couscous and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Just add the dressing and grilled halloumi right before serving for the best taste.
3. Is this salad suitable for vegans?
This salad is not vegan due to the halloumi cheese. However, you can replace the halloumi with grilled tofu for a vegan option.
Enjoy making your Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing! It’s simple, delicious, and sure to please everyone!
