Easy Refreshing Couscous Chickpea Salad

Easy Refreshing Couscous Chickpea Salad

Looking for a light, flavourful, and easy-to-make dish? This Refreshing Couscous Chickpea Salad is packed with fresh vegetables, zesty dressing, and wholesome ingredients that make it perfect for lunch, a side dish, or even a potluck. Plus, it comes together in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pearl couscous or regular couscous 
• 1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 5 mini radishes, chopped
• 1 packet of halloumi cheese (225g), diced 
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped 
• 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
• 1 can of chickpeas (400g)
• 1 can of sweetcorn (325g)

For the Dressing:

• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning 
• 1 tsp honey 

Instructions:

1. Prepare the couscous: In a large bowl, add the couscous and pour the boiling water or vegetable broth over it. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
2. Chop the vegetables: While the couscous is absorbing, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and radish. 
3. Grill the Halloumi: Now chop up the halloumi into bite-sized pieces and grill on both sides until golden, this should take only a few minutes. 
4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried oregano, Italian seasoning, honey, salt, and black pepper.
5. Combine everything: Add the chopped vegetables, cilantro, mint, chickpeas, and halloumi to the fluffed couscous. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve and enjoy: Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavours to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips and Variations:

• Swap out couscous for quinoa or bulgur for a different texture.

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein boost.

• Use sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

This couscous salad is a perfect balance of fresh, tangy, and savory flavours. It’s a quick and versatile dish that’s great for meal prep or a healthy side. Try it out and let me know how you like it!

Enjoy your fresh Mediterranean Couscous Salad!