Looking for a vibrant and healthy dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful? This Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad delivers a burst of color, texture, and refreshing flavor in every bite. From the crispy, golden halloumi to the juicy pomegranate seeds and refreshing mint-lemon dressing, this recipe is the perfect way to celebrate the lighter side of summer dining. Whether you’re searching for a quick lunch, a unique side dish, or a meatless main that still feels satisfying, this couscous salad checks all the boxes. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, packed with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, and completely vegetarian.
🌿 Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Light yet satisfying: Thanks to the combination of protein-rich halloumi and fiber-filled couscous.
- Balanced and vibrant: Salty cheese, sweet pomegranate, fresh herbs, and zesty citrus all come together beautifully.
- Quick to prepare: Minimal cooking required—just boil water and pan-fry the cheese.
- Great for meal prep: Can be served warm or chilled, making it ideal for lunches or picnics.
- Visually stunning: A colorful dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or brightening your day.
📝 Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 block (7 oz) halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup pomegranate seeds
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Mint-Lemon Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp finely chopped mint
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Couscous
Place the couscous in a heatproof bowl. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over it, cover with a lid or plate, and let it steam for 5 minutes.
Once all the water is absorbed, fluff the couscous with a fork and let it cool slightly.
2. Grill the Halloumi
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the halloumi slices and grill for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the edges. Set aside.
3. Mix the Salad Base
In a large salad bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, pomegranate seeds, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, and fresh mint.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Make the Mint-Lemon Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey or maple syrup, and chopped mint.
Season with salt and black pepper and whisk until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
5. Assemble the Salad
Drizzle the dressing over the couscous mixture and toss gently to combine all the flavors.
Top the salad with the grilled halloumi slices. Optionally, add more mint or pomegranate seeds for garnish.
6. Serve
Serve the salad immediately while the halloumi is warm, or chill for 15–20 minutes and serve cold.
Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or potluck contribution.
⏱️ Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 2–3
🧠 Extra Tips & Variations
- Add greens: Serve the couscous mix on a bed of arugula or baby spinach for extra freshness.
- Make it vegan: Swap halloumi for grilled tofu and use maple syrup in the dressing.
- Boost protein: Add a handful of chickpeas or roasted nuts for a protein punch.
- Fruit swap: Not a fan of pomegranate? Try fresh mango, orange segments, or dried cranberries instead.
📌 Final Thoughts
This Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience of bold flavors, vibrant colors, and delightful textures. It’s easy enough for a weeknight lunch but special enough to serve at your next gathering. Plus, the mint-lemon dressing takes it to the next level with its bright, herbaceous zing.
Whether you’re embracing a healthier lifestyle or simply looking for something deliciously different, this salad is a must-try.
Have you tried couscous salads before? What would you pair with this dish? Let us know in the comments below! 🌿
📲 Hashtags for Social Media
#HalloumiSalad #CouscousRecipe #HealthyLunch #MintLemonDressing #SummerSalads #VegetarianDelight #QuickMeals #MediterraneanFlavor #MeatlessMonday #EasySaladRecipe