Caprese Couscous Salad

Caprese Couscous Salad is a delightful fusion of the classic Italian Caprese salad and the light, fluffy texture of couscous. This dish combines juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil with couscous, all brought together with a tangy balsamic glaze. It’s a refreshing and satisfying option for lunches, picnics, or as a side dish for grilled meats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Fresh Ingredients: Utilizes fresh, wholesome ingredients for a healthy meal.
• Versatile: Can be served warm or cold, making it suitable for any season.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Flavors meld beautifully when prepared in advance.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with additional ingredients like grilled chicken or avocado.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup couscous
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella, cubed
• ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• Salt and pepper to tastewonkywonderful.com+9zeroingredients.com+9simplyscratch.com+9

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to tastewonkywonderful.comzeroingredients.com+1rachelcooks.com+1

For the Balsamic Glaze:

• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugarzeroingredients.com

Directions

1. Prepare the Couscous: Bring 1¼ cups of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Add the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Make the Balsamic Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and reduces by half (about 5-7 minutes). Set aside to cool.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, toss the couscous with halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and red onion (if using). Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Serve: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top of the salad just before serving for a sweet and tangy touch.zeroingredients.com

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutesallrecipes.com+6zeroingredients.com+6inspiralized.com+6

Variations

• Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
• Different Grains: Substitute couscous with quinoa or orzo for a different texture.
• Vegan Option: Omit mozzarella or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Extra Vegetables: Incorporate cucumbers, bell peppers, or arugula for added crunch and flavor.
• Herb Variations: Try adding fresh mint or parsley alongside basil for a unique twist.zeroingredients.com

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If desired, gently warm in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the salad up to a day in advance, but add the basil and balsamic glaze just before serving to maintain freshness.rachelcooks.com

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feta or goat cheese can be used as alternatives to mozzarella for a different flavor profile.zeroingredients.com

Is it necessary to make the balsamic glaze?

While optional, the balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy depth to the salad that complements the other ingredients.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Absolutely. Prepare all components ahead of time and assemble just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.

What type of couscous is best for this recipe?

Pearl (Israeli) couscous is recommended for its chewy texture, but regular couscous can also be used.rachelcooks.com

How can I make this salad gluten-free?

Substitute couscous with gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice.

Can I add nuts to this salad?

Yes, toasted pine nuts or walnuts add a delightful crunch and flavor.

What can I serve with this salad?

It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a larger Mediterranean-inspired spread.

How long does the balsamic glaze last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it can last up to a month.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is preferred for its vibrant flavor, but dried basil can be used in a pinch.zeroingredients.com

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly.

Conclusion

Caprese Couscous Salad is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings together the best of Italian flavors with the hearty texture of couscous. Its quick preparation time and adaptability make it a go-to recipe for various occasions, from casual lunches to festive gatherings. Enjoy the freshness of this salad and feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences.

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