Couscous Arugula Salad with Halloumi & Yogurt Dressing
Here’s a Mediterranean Couscous Arugula Salad with Grilled Halloumi and Yogurt Dressing – a fresh, vibrant dish perfect for summer meals or light lunches. It’s loaded with texture, flavor, and nutrients.
Total Time:
Prep: 15 min
Cook: 10 min
Total: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
1 cup couscous
1 cup boiling water or low-sodium vegetable broth
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups baby arugula
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup cucumber, finely diced
1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
8–10 fresh mint leaves, chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Grilled Halloumi:
200g (about 7 oz) halloumi, sliced
1 tsp olive oil
For the Yogurt Dressing:
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small garlic clove, grated
1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or mint
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Couscous:
In a bowl, combine couscous, olive oil, salt, and boiling water (or broth).
Cover with a lid or plate, let sit for 5–7 minutes.
Fluff with a fork and let it cool slightly.
2. Grill the Halloumi:
Pat halloumi slices dry with a paper towel.
Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Cook halloumi for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Set aside.
3. Mix the Yogurt Dressing:
Whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, honey, salt, pepper, and herbs (if using).
Adjust consistency with a tiny splash of water if needed.
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, mix couscous with arugula, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, mint, lemon juice, and black pepper.
Top with grilled halloumi slices.
Drizzle yogurt dressing over the salad or serve on the side.
Notes & Tips:
Serving idea: This salad is great warm or cold. If serving cold, chill the couscous first.
Add crunch: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds work well.
Add sweetness: Toss in a few pomegranate seeds or dried apricots.
Make it vegan: Swap halloumi with grilled tofu and use a plant-based yogurt.
❓ frequently asked questions FAQ:
Can I use pearl couscous?
Yes! Just cook it according to package directions, cool it slightly, and proceed as usual.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Prep all components separately and assemble before serving for best texture.
What protein can I use instead of halloumi?
Try grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for variation.
Nutrition information
Calories: ~450
Protein: 21g
Carbs: 38g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 4g