Hey there, flavor seeker! If you’re craving a salad that’s fresh, vibrant, and packed with bold textures, this Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing is your new go-to. Imagine salty, golden halloumi, juicy pops of pomegranate, fluffy couscous, and a zingy mint-lemon dressing that ties it all together like a party in your mouth. Trust me, this salad is an absolute crowd-pleaser and totally addictive!
Why You’ll Love Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
This salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a whole vibe:
Versatile: Great as a light lunch, a side at your next BBQ, or a fresh addition to your meal prep.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, fresh ingredients that are easy to find and kind to your wallet.
Quick and Easy: Whip it up in under 30 minutes—minimal cooking, maximum flavor.
Customizable: Swap the halloumi for grilled chicken or tofu, or add your favorite herbs.
Crowd-Pleasing: The sweet-tart burst of pomegranate and crispy halloumi will have everyone asking for seconds.
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Ingredients in Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Here’s what makes this salad sing:
Halloumi cheese: Crispy on the outside, soft and salty on the inside—a texture dream.
Couscous: Fluffy and light, soaking up all those fresh flavors.
Pomegranate seeds: Jewel-like bursts of sweet and tangy freshness.
Fresh mint: Bright and cooling, it lifts the whole dish.
Lemon juice: Adds zing and brightness to the dressing.
Olive oil: Smooth and fruity, brings everything together.
Garlic: Adds a subtle kick to the dressing.
Salt and pepper: To balance and enhance the flavors.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions for Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Ready for a flavor explosion? Let’s do this!
Prepare the Couscous
Cook couscous according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool slightly.
Cook the Halloumi
Slice halloumi into thick pieces and pan-fry in a little olive oil over medium heat until golden and crispy on both sides. Set aside.
Make the Dressing
Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped mint, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the couscous, pomegranate seeds, and half the mint. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
Serve
Top with crispy halloumi slices and sprinkle the remaining mint on top for freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 350
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
How to Serve Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Here’s how to enjoy this beauty:
- As a main dish: Light, fresh, and filling enough on its own.
- With grilled meats or fish: Perfect side that complements smoky flavors.
- On a picnic: Easy to pack and stays delicious chilled.
- Garnished with extra lemon wedges: For a citrusy punch.
Additional Tips
- Don’t overcook the couscous: Keep it light and fluffy.
- Use fresh mint: It makes all the difference in flavor.
- Add toasted nuts: Like pine nuts or almonds for extra crunch.
- Make it vegan: Swap halloumi for grilled tofu or tempeh.
- Prepare dressing in advance: Flavors deepen if it sits a bit.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use quinoa instead of couscous?
A1: Absolutely! Quinoa adds a nutty texture and is a great gluten-free option.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A2: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Best eaten fresh.
Q3: Can I grill the halloumi?
A3: Yes! Grilling adds a lovely smoky flavor.
Q4: What if I don’t have pomegranate seeds?
A4: Dried cranberries or cherries work as a tasty substitute.
Q5: Can I add other herbs?
A5: Parsley or cilantro pair beautifully with mint in this salad.
Q6: Is this salad good warm or cold?
A6: Both! It’s delicious slightly warm or chilled.
Q7: How do I make the dressing less tangy?
A7: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to balance the lemon.
Q8: Can I prepare this salad ahead?
A8: Yes, but add the halloumi just before serving to keep it crispy.
Q9: Is halloumi suitable for vegetarians?
A9: Yes, halloumi is a vegetarian-friendly cheese.
Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Definitely! Just use a larger bowl and a bigger pan for cooking halloumi.
Conclusion
This Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing is bursting with fresh flavors and textures that will brighten up any meal. It’s simple to make, packed with goodness, and totally delicious. Ready to impress yourself and your friends? Let’s get cooking!
Print
Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and refreshing couscous salad featuring grilled halloumi cheese, juicy pomegranate seeds, and a zesty mint-lemon dressing—perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
- 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Place couscous in a large bowl. Pour boiling water or broth over it, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Grill halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Add pomegranate seeds, mint, red onion, and cucumber to the couscous. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
- Top salad with grilled halloumi slices and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth for extra flavor instead of water.
- Toast couscous lightly before adding water for a nuttier taste.
- Halloumi can be substituted with feta for a softer texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling, No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg