Delicious Warm Couscous Salad with Zucchini and Arugula

Are you looking for a quick and flavorful salad recipe that will satisfy your taste buds? Look no further! In this recipe, we will be sharing a mouthwatering recipe for a warm couscous salad with zucchini and arugula. 

This salad is not only packed with delicious flavors but also provides a nutritious and wholesome meal option. We will also explore the nutritional benefits of couscous, the properties of arugula, and the wonders of zucchini. So, let’s dive in and discover the secrets to creating this delectable dish!

Ingredients

1 cup Pearl Couscous

2 medium zucchinis, sliced

2 cups arugula

1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon honey

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1

Cook the Pearl Couscous according to the instructions on the package. Once cooked, set it aside.

Step 2

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and sauté until tender and slightly golden, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper to create a tangy dressing.

Step 4

In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked couscous, sautéed zucchini, arugula, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.

Step 5

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are well coated.

Step 6

Serve the warm couscous salad immediately and enjoy!

The Nutritional Benefits of Couscous

Couscous, a staple in North African cuisine, is a versatile ingredient that adds a delightful texture to any dish. It is made from semolina wheat, which is rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals. 

The Pearl Couscous from RiceSelect, which we recommend for this recipe, is known for its superior quality and delectable taste. If you’re interested in learning more about couscous, click here: couscous nutrition

The Properties of Arugula

Arugula, also known as rocket, is a leafy green that adds a peppery and slightly bitter flavor to salads. Besides being a tasty addition to your meals, arugula is packed with nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and potassium. Including arugula in your diet can support bone health, boost immunity, and promote healthy digestion. So, don’t hesitate to load up on this vibrant and nutritious green!

The Wonders of Zucchini

Zucchini, a summer squash, is a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in various dishes. It is low in calories and rich in nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Zucchini is an abundant source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fiber. 

It also contains antioxidants that help protect against oxidative stress. Adding zucchini to your meals not only enhances the flavor but also provides a range of health benefits.

Secrets to Enhance the Salad

• For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds to the salad.
• If you prefer a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the salad.
• Experiment with different herbs such as fresh basil or mint to add an aromatic touch.
• To make the salad more substantial, incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp.

Sides to Accompany this Recipe

No delicious meal is complete without the perfect sides to complement the main dish. When serving this warm couscous salad with zucchini and arugula, you have a variety of options for delightful accompaniments. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your culinary experience:

Grilled Vegetables: Fire up the grill and prepare a medley of grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, eggplant, and mushrooms. The smoky flavors of the grilled veggies will harmonize beautifully with the couscous salad, adding a delightful charred taste to your plate.

Herbed Yogurt Dip: Create a refreshing and creamy herbed yogurt dip to serve alongside the salad. Simply mix Greek yogurt with chopped fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and mint. This cool and tangy dip will provide a lovely contrast to the warm couscous and add a creamy element to your meal.

Garlic Bread: Whip up a batch of homemade garlic bread to accompany the salad. Slice a baguette, brush it with garlic-infused butter, and toast it in the oven until golden and aromatic. The crispy bread with a hint of garlic will be perfect for scooping up bites of the couscous salad.

 

Proper Storage

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to two days. Before serving the leftovers, you may want to drizzle a little extra dressing to refresh the flavors.

Variations of this Recipe

One of the joys of cooking is the ability to customize and adapt recipes to suit your preferences. The warm couscous salad with zucchini and arugula is no exception. Here are some creative variations you can try to put your own spin on this delicious dish:

Mediterranean Twist: To give the salad a Mediterranean flair, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss in some fresh basil and drizzle with a lemon-herb vinaigrette for a burst of Mediterranean flavors.

Nutty Delight: Enhance the texture and flavor profile of the salad by sprinkling toasted nuts such as almonds, pistachios, or pine nuts over the top. The crunchy nuts add a delightful contrast and a nutty undertone to the dish.

Grain Alternatives: While couscous is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with different grains for variety. Substitute the couscous with quinoa, bulgur wheat, or even pearl barley to create a unique and wholesome salad.

This warm couscous salad with zucchini and arugula is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The nutty couscous, tender zucchini, peppery arugula, and tangy dressing create a harmonious combination that will leave you wanting more. 

With the additional nutritional benefits of couscous, arugula, and zucchini, you can indulge in this salad knowing it’s not only delicious but also good for you. So, grab your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and treat yourself to a mouthwatering salad that will satisfy your cravings and nourish your body.