Smoked Mackerel and Pearl Couscous Salad Recipe

Picture this  a salad that not only offers an exceptional taste but also provides health benefits with a mixture of wholesome grains and oily fish. Sounds good, right? What if we told you that this salad can be made right at home with minimal effort? Enter our Smoked Mackerel and Couscous Salad Recipe.

The Magic Ingredient RiceSelect Pearl Couscous

The star ingredient for this recipe is RiceSelect Pearl Couscous, available here at: riceselect.com/product/riceselect-pearl-couscous It’s a versatile grain that is perfect for a salad base and, combined with smoked mackerel, creates a delightfully balanced dish that is both filling and nutritious.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful salad, you will need the following ingredients:

200g smoked mackerel fillets

1 cup RiceSelect Pearl Couscous

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 yellow bell pepper, diced

1 small red onion, finely chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

½ cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped

¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped

Juice of 1 lemon

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1

Cook the Pearl Couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the RiceSelect Pearl Couscous and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the couscous is tender. Once cooked, drain any excess water and set aside to cool.

Step 2

Prepare the Smoked Mackerel: Remove the skin from the smoked mackerel fillets and break them into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Step 3

Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pearl couscous, diced bell peppers, chopped red onion, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and mint leaves. Toss gently to combine.

Step 4

Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Step 5

Add the Smoked Mackerel: Gently fold in the smoked mackerel pieces, being careful not to break them too much.

Step 6

Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with a few extra mint leaves for an added touch of freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Nutritional Benefits of this Recipe

The Smoked Mackerel and Pearl Couscous Salad not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a wide range of nutritional benefits. Let’s take a closer look at how this delectable dish can contribute to your overall well-being:

High in Protein

Smoked mackerel is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Protein plays a crucial role in building and repairing tissues, supporting a healthy immune system, and maintaining proper hormone function. By including smoked mackerel in this salad, you’re giving your body a significant protein boost.

 

Fiber-Packed Couscous 

The addition of RiceSelect Pearl Couscous brings a healthy dose of fiber to the salad. Fiber aids in digestion, helps maintain a healthy weight, and promotes feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for those watching their calorie intake. 

Low in Calories

If you’re watching your calorie intake, this salad is an excellent choice. It offers a satisfying and nutritious meal without adding excessive calories to your diet. The combination of protein, fiber, and vegetables ensures that you feel satiated while still nourishing your body with essential nutrients.

Abundance of Antioxidants 

The vibrant bell peppers and cherry tomatoes in this salad are packed with antioxidants, including vitamins A and C. Antioxidants play a vital role in protecting your cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals, thereby supporting overall health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Additional Tips and Secrets

Secrets of Preparation: To enhance the smoky flavor of the mackerel, you can briefly sear it on a hot skillet before breaking it into pieces for the salad. This extra step will elevate the overall taste profile of the dish.

Proper Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to consume it as soon as possible to enjoy its vibrant flavors and textures.

Delicious Accompaniments for this Recipe

Grilled Vegetables: Add another layer of smoky goodness by grilling some vegetables to serve alongside the salad. Zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and asparagus work particularly well. 

Crusty Bread: Serve the salad with a side of crusty bread, such as a baguette or artisan loaf. The bread’s crunchy exterior and soft interior provide a satisfying contrast to the salad’s textures. You can slice the bread and lightly toast it for an extra touch of warmth and flavor.

 

Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices can be a wonderful addition to the Smoked Mackerel and Pearl Couscous Salad. Their rich texture and mild flavor balance the smokiness of the mackerel and add a creamy element to each bite. Slice ripe avocados and arrange them on top of the salad for a burst of extra creaminess and healthy fats.

With this recipe, you have the perfect salad for a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of the smoky mackerel, fluffy pearl couscous, and crunchy vegetables creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that is sure to impress. Don’t forget to try RiceSelect Pearl Couscous to elevate your salad game even further.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your ingredients ready, head to the kitchen, and prepare this delightful Smoked Mackerel and Pearl Couscous Salad. Your taste buds will thank you!

The Smoked Mackerel and Pearl Couscous Salad is a delectable dish that brings together the smokiness of mackerel, the tenderness of pearl couscous, and the freshness of vegetables. With the addition of RiceSelect Pearl Couscous, this salad reaches new heights of flavor and texture. 

Follow the simple steps provided, and don’t forget to explore the additional tips and secrets for an even more amazing culinary experience. Enjoy this vibrant salad as a light meal or pair it with your favorite accompaniments for a complete and satisfying feast. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this salad is a true winner in taste and presentation!