The rich, nutty texture of whole wheat pearl couscous is the perfect match for toasted pine nuts, crunch cucumbers, and salty feta.
Life is too short to eat boring salads. Is a garden salad with grilled chicken healthy? Of course. Does it get old after a few days? You betcha’!
If you’re stuck in a salad rut, I urge you to think outside of the bowl and get creative. Lettuce-based salads are a regular in our house but as the growing season winds down here in Michigan, I like to fill my salad bowl with heartier ingredients such as roasted beets, carrots, sweet potatoes, and whole grains.
Regardless of the month, I urge you to let the season guide your bowl to maximize flavor and health benefits. Here are a few of my favorite salads and homemade dressing recipes:
- Roasted Beet Salad with Wheat Berries and Toasted Walnuts
- Middle Eastern Salad with Lemon, Mint and Garlic
- Garlicky Caesar Salad with Shaved Parm
- Green Salad with Sesame Ginger Vinaigrette
- Dill Ranch Dressing
Today’s recipe contains za’atar, a Middle Eastern spice blend that contains thyme, oregano, sumac and toasted sesame seeds. Various versions are sold in Middle Eastern markets or online.
Your fork is waiting.
Couscous Salad with Za’atar Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 1 c whole wheat pearl couscous (repared according to package directions such as Bob’s Red Mill)
- 2 c English cucumber (diced)
- ⅓ c feta (crumbled)
- ¼ c fresh mint (minced)
- 3 tbs pine nuts (toasted in dry pan)
- 2 tbs lemon juice
- 1 tbs extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbs za’atar
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine cooked couscous with cucumber, feta, mint and pine nuts.
- Toss salad with lemon juice, olive oil, za’atar, salt and pepper.
- Check for seasoning and adjust accordingly.
Oh my goodness. At first I thought it was lentils in the salad. I love Za’atar and am so glad I came across these recipes and your blog!
My pleasure!! I hope you enjoy it!
Just made this for the week’s lunches, adding in a chopped red bell pepper. Delicious! So glad that I found your lovely blog :-)
I’m so glad to hear – thank you for finding me and saying hi!! Enjoy the salad!