Description
This vibrant Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the salty richness of grilled halloumi with the sweet burst of pomegranate arils, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Couscous:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
Salad:
- 7 oz halloumi cheese (sliced)
- 1/2 cup pomegranate arils
- 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions or red onion
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
Mint-Lemon Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Couscous: Place couscous in a heatproof bowl. Pour over boiling water or broth, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool.
- Grill the Halloumi: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Grill the halloumi slices for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, pomegranate arils, cucumber, mint, parsley, and scallions.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped mint, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the couscous mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Top the salad with grilled halloumi slices just before serving. Serve warm or chilled.
Notes
- This salad is best served the day it’s made but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
- Use quinoa instead of couscous for a gluten-free option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
