Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad Recipe

Couscous: A type of pasta made from semolina wheat, providing a light and fluffy texture.

Cherry tomatoes: Small, sweet tomatoes that add a burst of flavor and color.

Red onion: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor and a bit of crunch.

Parsley: Fresh herb that adds a bright, aromatic touch.

Feta cheese: A brined curd cheese that adds a salty and tangy flavor.

Olive oil: Used to dress the salad, adding richness and a smooth texture.

Lemon juice: Adds a zesty, refreshing tang to the salad.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the flavor profile.

When preparing couscous, ensure you pour the boiling water evenly over it to promote uniform cooking. Cover the bowl tightly with a lid or plate to trap the steam, which helps the couscous absorb the water fully and become fluffy. After the 5-minute resting period, use a fork to gently fluff the couscous, breaking up any clumps. This technique ensures a light and airy texture, perfect for mixing with the cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese.

• couscous - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa is a nutritious grain that has a similar texture to couscous and can be used as a gluten-free alternative.

• boiling water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Using vegetable broth instead of water adds extra flavor to the couscous.

• cherry tomatoes - Substitute with grape tomatoes: Grape tomatoes have a similar size and sweetness to cherry tomatoes and can be used interchangeably.

• red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor compared to red onions and can add a subtle sweetness to the salad.

• fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro provides a different but equally fresh and vibrant flavor to the salad.

• feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a creamy texture and tangy flavor that can replace feta cheese in the salad.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a good alternative to olive oil.

• lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor to lemon juice, adding a refreshing taste to the salad.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor to the salad, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a bit of heat and spice to the salad, enhancing its overall flavor profile.

• Allow the couscous salad to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain the texture and prevents condensation from making it soggy.

• Transfer the cherry tomato couscous salad to an airtight container. This will keep it fresh and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for busy weeks.

• If you plan to freeze the salad, omit the feta cheese before freezing. Dairy products can change texture when frozen and thawed, which might affect the overall taste and feel of the salad.

• To freeze, place the salad in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

• Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness. The salad can be frozen for up to 1 month.

• When ready to eat, thaw the salad in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, add fresh feta cheese and give it a good toss to redistribute the olive oil and lemon juice.

• For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil after thawing. This will revive the salad and make it taste as fresh as the day it was made.

• Gently warm the couscous salad in a non-stick skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, but be careful not to overcook the cherry tomatoes and feta cheese.

• For a quick and easy method, place the couscous salad in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to distribute the heat evenly.

• If you prefer a more hands-off approach, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the couscous salad evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

• For a fresh twist, consider adding a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice before reheating. This can help revive the flavors and keep the salad moist.

• If you have a steamer, you can use it to gently reheat the couscous salad. Place the salad in a heatproof dish and steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps retain the texture and flavor of the vegetables and couscous.

• For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider reheating the couscous salad in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and heat the salad for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Large bowl: To hold the couscous and boiling water, and later to mix all the ingredients together.

• Fork: To fluff the couscous after it has absorbed the boiling water.

• Knife: To finely chop the red onion and parsley, and to halve the cherry tomatoes.

• Cutting board: To provide a surface for chopping the vegetables and herbs.

• Measuring cup: To measure out the couscous and boiling water accurately.

• Measuring spoons: To measure the olive oil and lemon juice precisely.

• Mixing spoon: To toss all the ingredients together evenly.

• Serving bowl: To present the finished cherry tomato couscous salad.

Pre-chop ingredients: Chop the red onion, parsley, and cherry tomatoes in advance and store them in the fridge.

Use instant couscous: Opt for instant couscous which cooks faster and saves time.

Batch cook: Make a larger batch of couscous and use it for multiple meals throughout the week.

Pre-mix dressing: Combine olive oil and lemon juice ahead of time to quickly drizzle over the salad.

Use pre-crumbled feta: Save time by buying pre-crumbled feta cheese instead of crumbling it yourself.