Bright, refreshing, and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this Tomato and Basil Couscous Salad is the perfect side dish or light main for any occasion. Featuring fluffy couscous as its base, this salad is elevated with the sweetness of juicy cherry tomatoes, the aromatic freshness of chopped basil, and the creamy tang of crumbled feta cheese. Toasted pine nuts add a delightful crunch, while a zesty lemon dressing brings all the elements together in harmony. Ready in just 20 minutes, this quick and easy recipe is ideal for meal prepping, picnics, or summer gatherings. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a versatile dish thatβs as delicious as it is beautiful!
In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil.
Stir in 1 cup of couscous and 0.5 teaspoon of salt. Remove the saucepan from heat, cover with a lid, and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Fluff the couscous with a fork and drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over it. Set aside to cool completely.
While the couscous cools, halve 1.5 cups of cherry tomatoes, finely chop 0.5 cup of fresh basil leaves, and mince 1 small shallot.
Toast 2 tablespoons of pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and aromatic, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside to cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 0.25 teaspoon of black pepper for the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled couscous, cherry tomatoes, basil, minced shallot, 0.5 cup of crumbled feta cheese, and toasted pine nuts.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy!
Calories |
822 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 56.6 g | 73% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.3 g | 76% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 9.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 67 mg | 22% | |
| Sodium | 2364 mg | 103% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 60.4 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.3 g | 26% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.6 g | ||
| Protein | 22.2 g | 44% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 460 mg | 35% | |
| Iron | 3.9 mg | 22% | |
| Potassium | 937 mg | 20% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.