Description
Mediterranean sunshine dances through this zesty Couscous Salad with Lime Basil Vinaigrette, blending fresh herbs and tangy citrus. Crisp vegetables and fluffy couscous create a refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cup boiling water (237 ml)
- 3 tbsps olive oil
- 2 tbsps fresh lime juice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup toasted pine nuts or chopped almonds (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh basil
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Hydrate Couscous: Transfer couscous to a heatproof container, pour boiling water over grains, seal with a lid, and allow to steam for 5 minutes. Gently separate grains using a fork, then let cool to room temperature.
- Craft Vinaigrette: Combine lime juice, zest, olive oil, mustard, honey, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and pepper in a sealed jar. Vigorously shake until ingredients emulsify into a smooth, aromatic dressing.
- Compose Salad: In a spacious mixing bowl, blend cooled couscous with diced tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, additional fresh basil leaves, crumbled feta, and toasted nuts. Drizzle prepared vinaigrette over the mixture, tossing gently to ensure even coating.
- Final Touch: Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately at room temperature or refrigerate to enhance flavor melding. Garnish with whole basil leaves for a vibrant presentation.
Notes
- Fluff couscous immediately after steaming to prevent clumping and ensure light, airy grains that absorb vinaigrette perfectly.
- Taste and adjust lime juice, honey, and salt ratios to create a harmonious dressing that complements the fresh vegetables.
- Dice vegetables uniformly and add just before serving to maintain crisp texture and prevent soggy salad.
- Swap feta with vegan cheese alternatives, use gluten-free couscous, or add protein like grilled chicken for more substantial meal options.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg