Caprese Couscous Salad

A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired salad featuring tender pearled couscous, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a tangy balsamic glaze. This refreshing dish is the perfect blend of simple ingredients and sophisticated flavors.

Merken

Whether you are looking for a light lunch or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this Caprese Couscous Salad is an excellent choice. The tender Israeli couscous acts as a perfect base for the creamy mozzarella and sweet cherry tomatoes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pearled (Israeli) couscous
• 1 1/4 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or sliced
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
• Optional: 1 teaspoon honey, if glaze is very tangy

Instructions

Step 1

In a saucepan, bring water, salt, and 1 tablespoon olive oil to a boil. Add pearled couscous, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8–10 minutes until couscous is tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool to room temperature.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine cooled couscous, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

Step 3

Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and toss gently. Season with black pepper.

Step 4

Transfer salad to a serving platter or bowl and drizzle with balsamic glaze. If desired, add a touch of honey to the glaze for extra sweetness.

Step 5

Serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes for a refreshing cold salad.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra flavor and a bit of crunch, you can add sliced avocado or toasted pine nuts to the salad before serving. Ensure you have a medium saucepan and a large mixing bowl ready for the best results.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you prefer a dairy-free or vegan option, substitute the mozzarella balls with your favorite vegan cheese. You can also make your own balsamic glaze by simmering 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon honey until reduced by half.

Serviervorschläge

This salad can be served immediately while the couscous is slightly warm, or chilled in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for a more refreshing experience on a hot day.

Merken

With its simple preparation and vibrant presentation, this Caprese Couscous Salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy a taste of Italy right at your table.