Halloumi Couscous Salad: A Melodic Dance of Flavor
Imagine a sun-soaked day, where the aroma of grilled cheese tantalizes your senses, and vibrant colors burst forth in a tantalizing dish that screams freshness. Halloumi Couscous Salad brings together the heart-warming goodness of cooked grains, fresh vegetables, and the mouthwatering richness of grilled halloumi cheese. Whether you’re looking for a fast weeknight meal, a make-ahead lunch, or a stunning centerpiece for your gatherings, this salad is bound to become a favorite. The interplay of the chewy couscous with the slightly salty halloumi will leave you yearning for more after every bite. Plus, it’s a dish that not only pleases the palate but also uplifts the spirit.
Is This Your Go-To Summer Salad Recipe?
Do you find yourself craving something light, yet filling for summer picnics or potlucks? Picture this: a warm afternoon, friends gathered around, laughter filling the air. The centerpiece of the table? This mesmerizing Halloumi Couscous Salad. Its vibrant colors and textures do more than just impress – they draw everyone in, creating a moment of togetherness that feels almost nostalgic. What’s better? The time it takes to whip this up is nearly as short as the amount of time it takes for your loved ones to devour it. Can you say “perfect meal” three times fast?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Prep: This Halloumi Couscous Salad requires minimal effort, making it an approachable choice for chefs of any skill level.
Healthy: Packed with fresh veggies, this salad is not just delicious, but also a nutritious choice, giving you a feeling of wellness in every bite.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a barbecue, a family gathering, or a casual brunch, this salad is sure to impress friends and family. Its balance of flavors satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
Minimal Ingredients: You get the maximum flavor with minimal fuss, allowing the natural taste of each ingredient to shine.
Ingredients
Creating this vibrant Halloumi Couscous Salad is a journey through fresh, delightful ingredients:
- 1 cup couscous: Bringing a subtle nuttiness and satisfying texture.
- 2 fresh corn cobs (kernels removed): Sweetness bursts with every bite, reminiscent of sunshine on your plate.
- 1 cup seedless cucumber (chopped): Crisp and refreshing, this adds a delightful crunch.
- 2 green onions (chopped): Their mild flavor perfectly complements the salad and adds a beautiful pop of color.
- 1/2 15oz can low sodium black beans: These beans lend both protein and a creamy mouthful that’s incredibly satisfying.
- 3/4 cup chopped tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, they create a perfect juicy contrast.
- 1 1/2 cups arugula or spinach: Earthy greens that offer both texture and a burst of color.
- 8 oz halloumi cheese: Soft, squeaky, and utterly irresistible, it’s the hero of this dish!
- 1 tablespoon shallot (minced): Adds a mild oniony flavor that enhances the salad.
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil: Rich and luscious, it coats every ingredient beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons vinegar: A hint of acidity balances the richness.
- 1 tablespoon apple juice: For a touch of natural sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons dijon mustard: Adding a tangy flair.
- 1 teaspoon mayonnaise: Creaminess to bind it all together.
- 2 teaspoons honey: A sweet kiss that enhances the flavors.
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning, but remember the halloumi’s natural saltiness!
Timing: Fast and Indulgent vs. Slow and Luxurious
The beauty of this Halloumi Couscous Salad lies in its adaptability. You can have it ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hasty weeknight meals when your stomach is grumbling with hunger. Picture this: while the couscous gently simmers, you can throw together the other ingredients, allowing flavors to meld with minimal effort. It’s fast, indulgent, and perfect for making any day feel special.
Step-by-Step Instructions
To whip up this heavenly Halloumi Couscous Salad, follow these easy steps:
In a large shallow pan with a lid, pour in 1 cup of water and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Stir in couscous and corn kernels, cover the pan, and turn off the heat. Let it sit for 10 minutes, allowing the couscous to soak up the flavors.
Once time has elapsed, remove the lid and fluff with a spoon, letting the warm grains breathe.
Meanwhile, for the dressing, combine all the ingredients in a small mason jar: shallots, olive oil, vinegar, apple juice, dijon mustard, mayonnaise, honey, and a generous pinch of salt. Shake until creamy and well-mixed or whisk together in a bowl.
In a large bowl, add the fluffy couscous mixture along with cucumber, green onions, black beans, tomatoes, and arugula.
Carefully prepare the grill by rubbing the grates with a paper towel soaked in vegetable or avocado oil. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Slice the halloumi cheese in half if it’s very thick and place it onto the grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side until those enticing grill marks appear and the cheese begins to soften inside – the sound alone is worth it!
To bring this salad together, toss the couscous and vegetables with a little bit of the dressing; taste and adjust to your preference before adding the remainder of the dressing.
Finally, season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, but be cautious with salt – the halloumi brings its own saltiness to the party.
Serve with halloumi pieces intact or slice it for easy sharing; it’s bound to be a crowd favorite!
Nutritional Information
While enjoying this Halloumi Couscous Salad, you can expect approximately 300-400 calories per serving, bursting with nutrients from the colorful veggies. While it’s indulgent with the halloumi, it delivers a delightful balance of flavors that makes every bite worthwhile. Embrace it as an occasional indulgence that brings joy to your culinary experience!
Healthier Alternatives
Looking to make this salad even healthier? Try these low-sugar, dairy-free swaps:
Replace halloumi with a dairy-free cheese alternative or grilled tofu for a lighter option.
Swap in a vinegar-based dressing instead of creamy mayonnaise for a tangy punch without the extra calories.
You can also use quinoa instead of couscous for a gluten-free twist!
Serving Suggestions
This Halloumi Couscous Salad is delightful on its own, but why not elevate the experience? Pair it with a scoop of your favorite ice cream for dessert to round out the meal – this contrast of rich, savory halloumi with a refreshing sweet treat is simply irresistible.
Planning a holiday gathering? Serve this as a beautiful side dish that dazzles your guests and provides a bright contrast to rich, hearty main courses.
Common Mistakes
Even the best chefs can face pitfalls! Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Overbaking Halloumi: Don’t let your halloumi linger on the grill too long. It should be warmed through with mesmerizing grill marks, while still soft and gooey.
Texture Issues: Ensure the couscous is fluffed properly to prevent clumping, allowing for that delightful chewiness.
Messy Preparation: Stay organized while prepping to avoid scattered ingredients and a chaotic kitchen cleanup!
Storing Tips
After enjoying this vibrant Halloumi Couscous Salad, storing leftovers can be easy!
If you plan to make ahead, consider preparing the components separately and combining just before serving to maintain freshness.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Feeling adventurous? Portion it out and freeze! Just be sure to reheat gently to preserve that delightful texture.
Temptation to Create
So why wait? This Halloumi Couscous Salad promises joy in every bite, beckoning you to savor the vibrant flavors and crispy textures that embody freshness. It’s a celebration in itself, and your palate is waiting to experience this culinary delight. Time to whip up this delight today!
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep ingredients ahead and mix just before serving to maintain freshness.Is this salad gluten-free?
The couscous is not gluten-free, but you can substitute with quinoa or another gluten-free grain.Can I use a different cheese alternative?
Absolutely! Grilled tofu or a dairy-free cheese can be excellent swaps.How long do leftovers last?
Properly stored in an airtight container, leftovers can last up to 3 days in the fridge.What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can also add a refreshing crunch!
Creating this Halloumi Couscous Salad is a sensory delight that caters to both your taste buds and your nostalgia. Gather your loved ones, and make it part of your culinary repertoire – you won’t regret it!
Print
Halloumi Couscous Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant salad featuring chewy couscous, grilled halloumi, and fresh vegetables, perfect for summer picnics and potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 2 fresh corn cobs (kernels removed)
- 1 cup seedless cucumber (chopped)
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- 1/2 15oz can low sodium black beans
- 3/4 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups arugula or spinach
- 8 oz halloumi cheese
- 1 tablespoon shallot (minced)
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 tablespoon apple juice
- 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons honey
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large shallow pan with a lid, pour in 1 cup of water and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Stir in couscous and corn kernels, cover the pan, and turn off the heat. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Remove the lid and fluff the couscous with a spoon.
- For the dressing, combine shallots, olive oil, vinegar, apple juice, dijon mustard, mayonnaise, honey, and a pinch of salt in a small mason jar. Shake until creamy.
- Add the fluffy couscous mixture along with cucumber, green onions, black beans, tomatoes, and arugula to a large bowl.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill the halloumi for 4-5 minutes per side until marked and softened.
- Toss the couscous and vegetables with some dressing, taste, and adjust seasoning before adding the remaining dressing.
- Serve the salad with whole or sliced halloumi.
Notes
This salad can be made ahead by prepping the ingredients separately and mixing just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
