Description
Mediterranean flavors dance through this Autumn Pearl Couscous Salad, blending roasted seasonal vegetables with nutty grains and tangy herbs. Cool evenings welcome warm spices and rich textures you’ll savor with each delightful forkful.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups pearl couscous
- 1 cup cubed butternut squash
- 0.5 cup feta cheese
Dried Ingredients:
- 0.25 cup dried cranberries
- 0.25 cup chopped pecans
Dressing and Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat oven to 400F (200C) for roasting butternut squash cubes.
- Drizzle squash with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then spread evenly on a baking sheet.
- Roast squash for 20-25 minutes until edges turn golden and vegetable becomes tender, stirring once midway.
- Prepare pearl couscous according to package instructions, ensuring grains are fluffy and separate.
- Transfer cooked couscous to a large mixing bowl and allow to cool slightly.
- Add roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and crumbled feta cheese to the couscous.
- Create a light dressing by whisking maple syrup and balsamic vinegar together.
- Pour dressing over the salad and gently toss to distribute ingredients and coating evenly.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor profile.
- Serve immediately while warm or refrigerate for a chilled option, allowing flavors to meld together.
Notes
- Roast squash in advance to save time and enhance its caramelized flavor, developing a deeper sweetness.
- Use whole wheat or pearl couscous for added nutrition and a delightful chewy texture that absorbs dressing beautifully.
- Swap feta with plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version that maintains the dish’s creamy element.
- Toast pecans briefly before adding to intensify their nutty flavor and create a delightful crunch in the salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 3.5 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg