Oh, you’re in for a treat with this one! This Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing is bursting with flavor, color, and texture it’s like sunshine in a bowl. Imagine golden, crispy halloumi, juicy pops of pomegranate, fluffy couscous, and a zingy mint-lemon dressing that ties everything together in the most refreshing way. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for a weekday lunch or a fancy-feeling dinner. Trust me, this salad is anything but boring. It’s vibrant, it’s bold, and it’s about to become your new go-to.

Why You’ll Love Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Great as a light meal or a hearty side dish. You can even serve it warm or cold it’s always delicious.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, accessible ingredients that pack a flavorful punch.

Quick and Easy: Comes together in about 20 minutes, start to finish.

Customizable: Swap out the grain, change up the herbs, or add your favorite veggies it’s totally flexible.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing

Here’s what makes this salad so irresistible it’s all about balancing flavors and textures to make every bite exciting:

Couscous

Light, fluffy, and a perfect base to soak up that lemony dressing.

Halloumi

The MVP of the salad crispy on the outside, squeaky and salty on the inside. A total game-changer.

Pomegranate Seeds

Little bursts of sweetness that brighten up every forkful.

Cucumber

Adds a fresh, cooling crunch that pairs beautifully with the rich halloumi.

Cherry Tomatoes

Juicy and slightly tart, they add color and extra freshness.

Fresh Mint

Fragrant and refreshing—mint brings the whole salad to life.

Lemon Juice

Zesty and bright, it’s the star of the dressing.

Olive Oil

Smooth and rich, it balances the tang of the lemon beautifully.

Honey or Maple Syrup

Just a touch of sweetness to round out the dressing.

Salt and Pepper

To taste because a little seasoning makes all the difference.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat to get ready for that golden, crispy halloumi.

Cook the Couscous

Pour boiling water over couscous in a bowl, cover, and let sit for 5–10 minutes until fluffy. Fluff with a fork once it’s ready.

Crisp the Halloumi

Slice the halloumi and pan-fry until golden on both sides. No oil needed if your pan is non-stick just watch it sizzle!

Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, chopped mint, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust as needed.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the couscous, pomegranate seeds, cucumber, and tomatoes. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.

Add the Halloumi

Top the salad with those golden slices of halloumi. You can cut them into bite-sized pieces or leave them as they are for a dramatic finish.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate it up and enjoy warm or cold either way, it’s absolutely delicious!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approx. 350

(Note: Nutrition may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve as a standalone lunch or light dinner with warm pita or flatbread.
• Pair with grilled chicken or lamb for extra protein.
• Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for extra creaminess.
• Add toasted nuts like pistachios or almonds for more crunch.
• Serve chilled on a picnic or potluck table it travels well and tastes even better as it sits.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Make the dressing ahead to save time and deepen the flavors.
• Use pearl couscous for a chewier texture if preferred.
• Halloumi is best served fresh and warm cook it last for best results.
• Add arugula or baby spinach for a green boost.
• Want it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
• Use lime juice for a twist on the lemon-mint combo.
• Store leftovers separately to keep the halloumi from getting soggy.
• Swap mint with parsley or basil for a different herb flavor.
• Add roasted veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color.
• Make it a full meal by adding chickpeas or lentils for extra protein.

FAQs

1 Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Just keep the dressing and halloumi separate until ready to serve for best texture.

2 Is halloumi cheese vegetarian?
It depends on the brand some use animal rennet, so check the label for a vegetarian-friendly option.

3 Can I use quinoa instead of couscous?
Absolutely! Quinoa makes a great gluten-free substitute and adds extra protein.

4 What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, keeping the dressing separate if possible.

5 Can I serve this salad warm?
Yes, it’s delicious warm with freshly cooked halloumi, but also tastes amazing cold.

6 How do I keep the halloumi from sticking to the pan?
Use a well-heated non-stick or cast iron pan and let the halloumi develop a crust before flipping.

7 What can I use instead of pomegranate seeds?
Dried cranberries or fresh grapes cut in half make tasty substitutes.

8 How can I make it vegan?
Swap the halloumi for grilled tofu and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.

9 Can I double the recipe for a party?
Definitely it’s a great dish for entertaining. Just scale up accordingly.

10 What’s the best olive oil to use for the dressing?
Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor in the dressing.

Conclusion

This Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing is the kind of dish that surprises you in the best way possible. It’s got crunch, it’s got zest, it’s got salty and sweet and fresh all working in harmony. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or just treating yourself to something special, this salad is guaranteed to impress. So grab your fork and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite salad again and again!

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