Couscous Salad with Roasted Red Peppers Feta & Basil Oil
Couscous Salad with Roasted Red Peppers, Feta & Basil Oil is a delightful dish that perfectly balances texture, flavor, and nutrition. This Mediterranean-inspired salad is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to be served as a side dish or a light main course. With a combination of fluffy couscous, sweet roasted red peppers, and creamy feta cheese, this vibrant salad is sure to please your palate.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Couscous Salad is a true crowd-pleaser. Not only does it feature simple yet flavorful ingredients, but it also comes together in just about 15 minutes! The roasted red peppers add a touch of sweetness, while the feta provides a salty, creamy contrast. The basil oil is a standout component, adding a fresh, herby note that elevates the dish. Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is both delicious and nutritious, making it a staple in any kitchen.
Ingredients
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need to create this mouth-watering Couscous Salad:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil for basil oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
Step 1: In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of vegetable broth (or water) to a rolling boil. This is crucial as it will help cook the couscous perfectly.
Using broth instead of water adds depth of flavor to the couscous, enhancing the overall taste of the salad. This method ensures that the couscous absorbs all the flavors from the broth while cooking.
Step 2: Stir in the couscous along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the boiling broth.
The olive oil will aid in preventing the couscous from sticking together, ensuring a light and fluffy texture once it’s cooked.
Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat, cover it, and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
This resting period allows the couscous to absorb the liquid fully, expanding in size and developing a soft, fluffy texture.
Step 4: After 5 minutes, use a fork to fluff the couscous gently, separating the grains.
This final fluffing step is essential to achieve the perfect couscous texture, making it light and airy, which is desirable in any salad.
Step 5: In a blender or food processor, blend 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves along with 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil until smooth to create the basil oil.
This basil oil not only infuses the salad with bold flavor but also adds a visually appealing drizzle that enhances the presentation.
Step 6: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked couscous, 1 cup of roasted red peppers, and 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese.
Be generous with the roasted red peppers, as their sweetness complements the salty feta, creating a wonderful flavor balance.
Step 7: Drizzle the salad with the basil oil and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, tossing everything to coat evenly.
The combination of basil oil and lemon juice adds a refreshing element, tying together the flavors of the couscous, peppers, and feta cheese.
Step 8: Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and serve either warm or chilled.
This dish is incredibly versatile; it can be enjoyed right after preparation or served cold as a refreshing side dish on a hot day.
FAQ
Can I use other grains instead of couscous?
Yes! Quinoa, bulgur, or even orzo are great alternatives that can provide different textures and flavors while maintaining the general idea of the salad.
How long does the salad last in the fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can last in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Make sure to toss it well before serving it again!
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or even olives for added flavor and texture.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Couscous is made from wheat, making it not gluten-free. However, you can substitute it with gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, and add the basil oil right before serving for optimal freshness.
Conclusion
This Couscous Salad with Roasted Red Peppers, Feta & Basil Oil is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritional powerhouse, packed with flavor and freshness. Its simplicity and speed of preparation make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests with minimal effort. Enjoy this delightful dish as a side or as a light meal, and watch it become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
