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Halloumi Couscous Salad

Halloumi Couscous Salad: A Quick, Flavor-Packed Delight

Halloumi Couscous Salad is a delightful explosion of flavor and texture, perfect for a stress-free lunch or a vibrant side at potlucks.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Adds healthy fats and richness
  • 1 cup Fresh Lemon Juice Provides brightness and acidity
For the Salad Base
  • 1.5 cups Instant Couscous Base of the dish, cooks quickly
  • 1.5 cups Boiling Water Hydrates the couscous
For the Vegetables
  • 1 can Chickpeas Adds protein and fiber
  • 1 medium English Cucumber Introduces crunch
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Provides sweetness and juiciness
  • 1 small Red Onion Contributes sharpness
  • 1 cup Flat-Leaf Parsley Adds freshness and color
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Delivers aromatic notes
  • 1 cup Fresh Mint Brings a refreshing contrast
For the Spice Blend
  • 4 cloves Garlic Gives aromatic depth
  • 2 teaspoons Ground Cumin Supplies warmth and earthiness
  • 1.5 teaspoons Ground Coriander Adds citrusy notes
  • 1.5 teaspoons Fine Sea Salt Essential for flavor balancing
  • 0.25-0.5 teaspoons Red Pepper Flakes Introduces a kick of heat
For the Topping
  • 8.8 ounces Halloumi Cheese Creates a crispy, salty topping

Equipment

  • nonstick skillet
  • Large bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, then stir in 4 finely grated garlic cloves, 2 teaspoons of ground cumin, 1½ teaspoons of ground coriander, 1½ teaspoons of fine sea salt, and ¼ to ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Let the mixture sizzle for about 1 minute until fragrant, then add 1 can of drained chickpeas. Stir and cook for another 3 minutes until heated through, then remove from heat.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 1½ cups of instant couscous with 1½ cups of boiling water and cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap to trap the steam. Allow it to sit undisturbed for 5 minutes. After the time is up, remove the cover and fluff the couscous gently with a fork, then mix in ½ cup of fresh lemon juice for a burst of brightness.
  3. Pour the warm chickpea mixture over the fluffy couscous, tossing to combine everything well. Next, add in the chopped English cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and fresh herbs: 1 cup each of chopped parsley, basil, and mint. Gently mix and taste, adjusting the salt as needed.
  4. Return the skillet to medium-high heat, adding a touch more olive oil if necessary. Add 8.8 ounces of sliced halloumi cheese, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden brown on one side. Carefully flip the slices and let them cook for another 1-2 minutes. Once fully cooked, tear the halloumi into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle them over the salad to finish off.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, allow the salad to rest for at least 15 minutes before serving. Customize by swapping in any fresh veggies or herbs you have on hand.

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