For a vegetarian option, ensure the honey is ethically sourced or substitute with agave nectar or maple syrup. Feel free to customize this salad with other vegetables such as roasted zucchini, grilled corn, or chopped spinach. To add some protein, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or crumbled feta cheese. The sumac adds a tangy, lemony flavor. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with a pinch of lemon zest. If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a bit more honey to the dressing. For a tangier salad, increase the lemon juice.
Pearl Couscous Salad
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PREP TIME20 mins
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COOK TIME40 mins
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TOTAL TIME1 hrs
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SERVING6 People
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VIEWS79
This vibrant Pearl Couscous Salad is a delightful symphony of textures and flavors. Featuring plump pearl couscous, protein-packed lentils, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lemon-honey dressing, it’s a refreshing and satisfying dish that's perfect for a light lunch, a potluck gathering, or a flavorful side.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate82 g
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Fiber10 g
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Protein13 g
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Saturated Fat3 g
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Sodium43 mg
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Sugar22 g
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Fat21 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
Step
14 mins
To prepare the couscous: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the pearl couscous and toast, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant (3-4 minutes). Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer until the couscous is tender and the water is absorbed (about 10 minutes). Drain and rinse the couscous under cold water in a colander. Transfer to a large serving bowl and stir in the remaining 4 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent sticking.
02
Step
35 mins
To cook the lentils: Place the French lentils in a small saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer until tender but not mushy (15-20 minutes). Drain and rinse the lentils under cold water in a colander. Add the cooked lentils to the couscous in the serving bowl.
03
Step
1 mins
To assemble the salad: Add the diced tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, cranberries, raisins, red onion, chives, green onion, parsley, and sumac to the couscous and lentils. Gently toss to combine.
04
Step
1 mins
To make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well emulsified.
05
Step
30 hrs
Pour the dressing over the salad and stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving. This salad can be made ahead and will keep well for several days.
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Easter Gottlieb
Jun 25, 2025I added some feta cheese and Kalamata olives to the salad, and it was delicious! Thanks for the great recipe.
Alysson Renner
Jun 24, 2025I've made this recipe several times now, and it's always a winner. It's so easy to make and it's packed with healthy ingredients.
Madalyn Okon
Jun 22, 2025This is my new go-to salad recipe! It's so refreshing and flavorful.
Amely Dickinson
May 29, 2025The lemon-honey dressing is so good! I could drink it straight from the bowl.
Simone Kirlin
Mar 23, 2025This salad is amazing! I made it for a potluck and it was a huge hit. Everyone loved the combination of sweet and savory flavors.
Karley Bernier
Mar 14, 2025I made this for a light lunch and it was perfect. It kept me full and satisfied for hours.
Alexzander Kris
Dec 7, 2024I love how versatile this salad is. You can easily swap out the vegetables and dried fruits to suit your taste.
Corine Will
Sep 26, 2024The sumac is what makes this salad special! It adds such a unique flavor.