Grilled Peach and Ricotta Couscous Salad
This Grilled Peach and Ricotta Couscous Salad is a refreshing Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings together sweet, smoky peaches, creamy ricotta, fluffy couscous, and vibrant herbs. Perfect for summer lunches, light dinners, or as a standout side dish at gatherings. It’s balanced, elegant, and easy to prepare.
Time Breakdown:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
1 cup couscous
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking couscous)
3 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
1 tbsp honey (for grilling peaches)
1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing peaches)
1/2 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
1/4 cup toasted pistachios or almonds (optional, for crunch)
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional, for bite)
Zest of 1 lemon
For the Dressing:
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Couscous:
In a medium saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil.
Stir in the couscous and 1 tbsp olive oil.
Cover and simmer (about 8–10 minutes for pearl couscous, or 5 minutes for regular), until the liquid is absorbed.
Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
2. Grill the Peaches:
Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
Brush peach halves with a mix of 1 tbsp honey and 1 tbsp olive oil.
Grill peaches cut-side down for 3–5 minutes or until char marks appear and they soften slightly.
Remove and let cool before slicing into wedges.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked couscous, chopped herbs, lemon zest, and sliced red onion (if using).
Drizzle the dressing over and toss gently.
Top with grilled peach slices, spoonfuls of ricotta, and sprinkle with toasted nuts.
Notes & Tips:
Peach Ripeness: Use ripe but firm peaches—they hold their shape better on the grill.
Ricotta Substitute: Try goat cheese or burrata if you prefer tangier or more luxurious texture.
Make Ahead: Cook couscous and grill peaches ahead of time. Assemble just before serving.
Serving Temp: Best served slightly warm or at room temperature.
Add Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a main course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned peaches?
A: Fresh peaches are best for grilling. Canned peaches are too soft and may fall apart. If using canned, skip grilling and use them fresh.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Yes! Use plant-based ricotta (made from almonds or cashews) and maple syrup instead of honey.
Q: Can I use another grain?
A: Absolutely. Quinoa, farro, or bulgur work well as substitutes for couscous.
Q: What if I don’t have a grill?
A: Use a grill pan or sear peaches in a hot skillet to mimic the grill marks and flavor.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 370 kcal
Protein :10 g
Carbohydrates :45 g
Sugars: 13 g
Fiber: 4 g
Fat: 17 g
Saturated Fat :4.5 g
Sodium :180 mg
Calcium :100 mg
Iron: 2mg