Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of the Middle East with this incredibly refreshing Couscous Salad with Cilantro Orange Vinaigrette! Imagine a dish that's not just a salad, but a vibrant culinary experience that combines the light, fluffy texture of perfectly prepared couscous with a bright, citrusy dressing that will make your palate dance. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a stunning side dish, or a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups boiling water
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the couscous in a large heat-resistant bowl. Carefully pour the boiling water over the couscous, covering it completely.
- Cover the bowl with a tight-fitting lid or plastic wrap and let it sit for 10 minutes, allowing the couscous to absorb the water and become fluffy.
- While the couscous is steaming, prepare the vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh orange juice, and orange zest until well combined.
- Add chopped fresh cilantro to the vinaigrette and mix thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- After 10 minutes, uncover the couscous and fluff it with a fork to separate the grains and release steam.
- Dice the cucumber into small, uniform cubes and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Add the diced cucumber and halved cherry tomatoes to the couscous, gently mixing to distribute evenly.
- Pour the cilantro orange vinaigrette over the couscous and vegetables, tossing gently to coat all ingredients.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Chill the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with additional fresh cilantro leaves if desired and serve cold or at room temperature.
Tips
- Water Temperature Matters: Use boiling water exactly as specified to ensure your couscous becomes perfectly fluffy and tender.
- Fluffing Technique: Always fluff your couscous with a fork after steaming to prevent clumping and create a light, airy texture.
- Chill for Maximum Flavor: Letting the salad rest in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes allows the vinaigrette to fully integrate with the ingredients.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh orange juice and zest for the most vibrant citrus flavor. Avoid bottled juice if possible.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to make this a complete meal.
- Serve Smart: This salad tastes great cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prep and picnics.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
