Pearl couscous salad

Pearl couscous salad

45 min
Enjoy the lively ingredients in our pearl couscous salad, perfect as a bring-to-work lunch or a simple dinner. Pearl couscous is mixed with the deep, sweet flavours of oven-roasted tomatoes and red onions and joined by fresh and crisp greens. A splash of lemon and honey dressing adds a bright touch, while marinated white cheese introduces an herby, spicy note that excites the palate.
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Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 160 °C (conventional oven) or 140 °C (fan-assisted oven).
  • Place tomatoes on a non-stick baking tray and lightly sprinkle with sugar.
  • Spread red onion on another non-stick baking tray and drizzle with olive oil.
  • Cook both in the oven for 40 minutes or until slightly golden. Set aside to cool.
  • Boil couscous in salted water according to the package instructions. Drain and refresh in cold water. Drain again and set aside.
  • In a small bowl, mix lemon juice and honey slightly.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine couscous, cucumber, salad leaves, and white cheese. Pour the lemon and honey mixture over.
  • Transfer to a serving plate, drizzle with the flavoured oil from the white cheese, and serve.
Enjoy!

FAQ: Questions about pearl couscous salad

If you need guidance on perfecting this pearl couscous salad, our FAQ section can help. Below, we answer some commonly asked questions about preparing and storing this vibrant, tasty salad.

Can I make pearl couscous salad ahead of time?
Yes. You can cut, cook, and prepare the ingredients individually and then mix the cooked couscous with the dressing and other ingredients just before serving for the freshest flavour. If you need to prepare it earlier, keep the salad in the fridge for a day or two, though fresh salads and vegetables taste best when added on the day.
How long can I store pearl couscous salad?
Pearl couscous salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If preparing it ahead, add the dressing and white cheese just before serving to keep it fresh. The salad is best within two days, as the greens might wilt after that.
Can I freeze pearl couscous salad?
It is not impossible to freeze pearl couscous salad, but it is not ideal either. Freezing can cause the couscous to become mushy and the vegetables to lose their crispness. If your salad contains ingredients such as leafy greens or cheese, they may not hold up well in the freezer. For the best result, preparing and enjoying pearl couscous salad fresh or storing it in the fridge for a few days is to be preferred.

Ingredients

Cherry tomatoes, halved
250 g
White sugar
1 tsp
Medium red onion, in wedges
1
Olive oil
1 tsp
Pearl couscous
75 g
Lemon juice
1 tsp
Honey
1 tsp
Cucumbers, in rough chunks
100 g
Spinach
50 g
Rocket leaves
30 g
Apetina® Original White Cheese In Brine, preferably with herbs and spices in oil
135 g
Salt and pepper to taste
Other recipes
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Tips: Perfect your pearl couscous salad

Get ready to cook a pearl couscous salad with our top tips. Find out how to prepare the couscous and cut the vegetables.

Stir occasionally while cooling

As the couscous cools, stir it occasionally to prevent it from clumping. A large baking sheet is ideal for spreading it out so it cools quicker and evenly.

Cut the vegetables evenly

Cut all the veggies into small, bite-sized pieces so they blend seamlessly with the couscous. Even cuts improve the presentation and ensure every bite is balanced in texture and flavour.

Prepare the perfect pearl couscous salad

Try our delicious pearl couscous salad recipe and revel in a flavourful, colourful salad. Pearl couscous is known for its plump, slightly chewy texture and its ability to soak up flavours from the dressing and other ingredients. While it provides a satisfying bite on its own, adding a host of soft and crisp vegetables makes the salad an exciting dining experience. Consider making a large portion, so you have leftovers for lunch the next day.

With a rainbow of fresh, roasted, and colourful vegetables

The combination of fresh and roasted vegetables is the standout feature of our pearl couscous salad. They add a lively contrast when it comes to presentation, textures, and flavours. Roasted cherry tomatoes caramelise in the oven, bringing a concentrated sweetness that adds depth to the salad. The roasted red onions support the tomatoes while adding a slightly charred note for nuance. Crunchy cucumber and a mix of fresh rocket salad and spinach leaves help balance out the warm veggies. Together, all the vegetables form a rainbow of colours and an excellent flavour combination.

Mixed with a honey-lemon dressing and topped with creamy white cheese

The honey and lemon dressing brings a touch of brightness that binds the whole dish together. Lemon and honey mix perfectly, combining sweetness with tanginess for a flavourful and nuanced dressing. It complements the deep, sweet flavours of the roasted veggies and the fresh crispness of the cucumber. The pearl couscous will soak up the dressing, ensuring every bite has all the flavour nuances. Finish it with white cheese in herbs and spices for a delightful richness and creaminess.

Enjoy it on its own or serve as a part of a larger meal

Whether you are looking for a delicious lunch option or a big meal, our recipe for pearl couscous salad fits the part. You can easily prepare the different ingredients the night before, keep them in separate containers, and then combine them for a bring-to-work lunch. Or, invite guests over for a refreshing weekend lunch and introduce them to an easy pearl couscous salad.

Pearl couscous salad complements many dishes. Serve it with grilled chicken or fish for a satisfying meal. It also pairs well with barbecued meats, offering a fresh, zesty balance to rich flavours. Its fresh and zesty flavour also matches Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. To enhance Mediterranean meals, try serving it with Greek baked chicken, Turkish lamb skewers, or Greek meatballs. With its generous amount of greens, this salad is hearty enough to serve as either a main or refreshing side dish.

Enjoy some of our other easy salad recipes, for example, new potato salad, grilled salmon salad, or Greek pasta salad.

Play around with the ingredients

Pearl couscous salads are wonderful additions to your cooking repertoire because of their versatility. While the couscous base remains the same, swap out the roasted and fresh vegetables based on your preferences. For example, try roasting red sweet pepper, courgette, or carrots for more earthy flavours. If you like, you can also incorporate the same veggies, fresh and uncooked. Thinly sliced radishes can add a peppery kick and a crunchy texture perfect for the tender couscous and roasted vegetables. Otherwise, anything from fresh corn to avocado will serve as tasty additions to your pearl couscous salad.

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