Name: Couscous and Walnut Salad Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups instant couscous; 6 tbsp olive oil; 3 cups boiling water; ½ cup Walnuts; 2 carrots; 1 cup parsley; 1 tsp garlic; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; 2 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground white pepper

This delightful couscous and walnut salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish, perfect for a light lunch or a side at dinner. It combines the nutty flavor of walnuts with the fresh crunch of carrots and the zesty taste of parsley, all tied together with a tangy red wine vinegar dressing.

Photos of Couscous and Walnut Salad Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this couscous and walnut salad are common pantry staples, you might need to pick up a few items at the supermarket. Instant couscous and red wine vinegar may not be in every home, and ground white pepper can also be less common than black pepper. Ensure you have these on hand before starting.

Ingredients For Couscous And Walnut Salad

instant couscous: A type of pre-steamed and dried couscous, making it quick to prepare.

olive oil: A rich, flavorful oil that adds depth and smoothness to the dish.

boiling water: Necessary for cooking the couscous and making it fluffy.

walnuts: Adds a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the salad.

carrots: Provides sweetness and crunch, adding color and nutrition.

parsley: A fresh herb that adds a burst of green and a slightly peppery taste.

garlic: Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor to the salad.

red wine vinegar: A tangy dressing component that brightens the flavors of the salad.

salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.

ground white pepper: Adds a mild heat without overpowering the dish.

One reader, Kassia Thigpen says:

This couscous and walnut salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The crunch of walnuts and freshness of parsley complement the fluffy couscous perfectly. Easy to make and absolutely delicious!

Kassia Thigpen

Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Couscous and Walnut Salad

How to prepare couscous: Place the couscous in a bowl, mix with olive oil, add boiling water, and let it sit for 25 minutes. How to fluff couscous: Use a fork to gently separate the grains after they have absorbed the water. How to chop walnuts: Use a knife to roughly chop the walnuts into smaller pieces. How to grate carrots: Use a grater to shred the carrots into fine pieces. How to chop parsley: Use a knife to finely chop the parsley leaves. How to mince garlic: Use a knife to finely chop the garlic cloves. How to mix salad: Combine all ingredients and mix well to ensure even distribution. How to store salad: Transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

How To Make Couscous and Walnut Salad

Tossed with couscous, this walnut salad is packed with soft and crunchy textures. It comes with carrots and parsley, plus a dash of red wine vinegar.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Rest and Chill Time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Total: 2 hours 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupsinstant couscous
6tbspolive oil
3cupsboiling water
½cupwalnuts
2carrots
1cupparsley
1tspgarlic
1tbspred wine vinegar
2tspsalt
1tspground white pepper

Instructions

Place the couscous and 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large bowl. Mix well with a fork.
Add the boiling water, mix well, and set aside for 25 minutes.
Fluff the couscous with a fork and add the walnuts, carrots, parsley, garlic, vinegar, salt, pepper, and remaining olive oil.
Mix well and set aside for 2 hours in the refrigerator, or transfer to an airtight container for storage for up to 24 hours.
When it is chilled, stir the salad, transfer to serving dishes, and serve at room temperature

Nutrition

Calories: 528.95kcal
Fat: 21.34g
Saturated Fat: 2.96g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.95g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.64g
Carbohydrates: 71.57g
Fiber: 5.88g
Sugar: 1.59g
Protein: 11.95g
Sodium: 780.26mg
Calcium: 61.09mg
Potassium: 331.55mg
Iron: 2.20mg
Vitamin A: 317.83µg
Vitamin C: 22.12mg

Helpful Technique for Enhancing Your Couscous and Walnut Salad

Toasting the walnuts before adding them to the couscous salad can enhance their flavor and add a delightful crunch. Simply place the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and fragrant. Let them cool before mixing into the salad.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Salad Recipe

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop carrots and parsley in advance. Store them in airtight containers to save time.

Use pre-chopped garlic: Opt for pre-minced garlic to cut down on prep time.

Toast walnuts early: Toast walnuts ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.

Boil water quickly: Use an electric kettle to boil water faster for the couscous.

Mix and refrigerate: Combine all ingredients and refrigerate overnight to let flavors meld, saving time on the day of serving.

Substitute Ingredients For Couscous and Walnut Salad Recipe

instant couscous - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa has a similar texture and is also a quick-cooking grain, making it a great alternative.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a mild flavor that works well in salads.
boiling water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Using vegetable broth can add extra flavor to the grains.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans have a similar crunch and slightly sweet flavor that complements the salad.
carrots - Substitute with bell peppers: Bell peppers add a different crunch and a burst of color, while maintaining a fresh taste.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh, citrusy flavor that can be a great alternative to parsley.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the other ingredients well.
red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and can add a slightly fruity note.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor, but use less to avoid overpowering the dish.
ground white pepper - Substitute with black pepper: Black pepper has a slightly stronger flavor but can be used in the same quantity.

Presenting Your Couscous and Walnut Salad

Use a ring mold for plating: Place the couscous mixture into a ring mold on the plate to create a neat, cylindrical shape. This adds a professional touch and ensures the salad holds its form.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley around the base of the couscous cylinder. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the fresh flavors of the dish.
Add texture with whole walnuts: Place a few whole walnuts strategically around the plate. This provides a visual cue of the ingredients and adds a crunchy texture.
Drizzle with olive oil: Lightly drizzle extra olive oil around the plate and over the couscous. This adds a glossy finish and enhances the richness of the dish.
Use carrot ribbons for elegance: Create thin ribbons of carrots using a vegetable peeler and arrange them artistically on top of the couscous. This adds height and visual interest.
Serve on a white plate: Use a simple, white plate to make the vibrant colors of the salad stand out. The clean background will highlight the dish's presentation.
Add microgreens for a touch of sophistication: Place a small bunch of microgreens on top of the couscous cylinder. This adds a modern, upscale element to the presentation.
Finish with a sprinkle of ground white pepper: Lightly dust the plate with ground white pepper to enhance the visual appeal and add a subtle hint of spice.

Essential Tools for Making a Delicious Salad

Large mixing bowl: To combine the couscous with olive oil and boiling water, and later to mix all the ingredients together.
Fork: To mix the couscous with olive oil initially and to fluff the couscous after it has absorbed the water.
Measuring cups: To measure out the couscous, boiling water, walnuts, and parsley accurately.
Measuring spoons: To measure the olive oil, garlic, red wine vinegar, salt, and ground white pepper.
Kettle or pot: To boil the water needed for the couscous.
Knife: To chop the carrots and parsley.
Cutting board: To provide a surface for chopping the carrots and parsley.
Garlic press: To mince the garlic if you are using fresh garlic cloves.
Mixing spoon: To mix all the ingredients together once they are combined in the bowl.
Airtight container: For storing the salad if you are not serving it immediately.
Refrigerator: To chill the salad for 2 hours before serving.
Serving dishes: To present the salad when it is ready to be served.

Storing and Freezing Your Couscous and Walnut Salad

To store the couscous and walnut salad in the refrigerator, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it chilled for up to 24 hours. The flavors will meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious the next day.
If you want to freeze the salad, it's best to do so before adding the walnuts, as they can become soft and lose their crunch when thawed. Place the salad in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen salad, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, add the walnuts and give the salad a good stir to redistribute the ingredients and flavors.
If you find that the couscous has absorbed too much moisture during the freezing and thawing process, you can revive it by fluffing it with a fork and adding a drizzle of olive oil to restore its texture and flavor.
For optimal taste and texture, consume the thawed salad within 24 hours of defrosting. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or appearance, discard the salad immediately.

Interesting Trivia About Couscous and Walnut Salad

A random fact about this couscous and walnut salad recipe is that couscous is a staple food in North African cuisine, often served with meat or vegetable stews. This versatile grain is made from semolina wheat and is known for its quick cooking time, making it a convenient ingredient for various salads and side dishes.

Is Making Couscous and Walnut Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

The couscous and walnut salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like couscous, carrots, and parsley are affordable and widely available. Walnuts and olive oil might be slightly pricier, but they are used in moderate quantities. Overall, this recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12 USD.

Is This Couscous and Walnut Salad Healthy?

The couscous and walnut salad recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a good balance of nutrients. The couscous provides complex carbohydrates, while the walnuts offer healthy fats and protein. The inclusion of carrots and parsley adds vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the salad. The use of olive oil, a heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, is another positive aspect of this recipe.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of salt to lower the sodium content. Instead, consider using more herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.
Increase the variety of vegetables in the salad to boost its nutritional value. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or bell peppers for added vitamins and minerals.
Include a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, to make the salad more satisfying and balanced.
Opt for whole wheat couscous to increase the fiber content and provide additional nutrients compared to regular couscous.
Lightly toast the walnuts to enhance their flavor and crunch, which may allow you to use a smaller amount while still enjoying their taste and texture.

Editor's Opinion on This Couscous and Walnut Salad

This couscous and walnut salad recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The nuttiness of the walnuts complements the fluffy couscous, while the carrots add a subtle sweetness. The parsley and garlic provide a fresh, aromatic touch, and the red wine vinegar adds a tangy kick. The use of olive oil ensures a rich, smooth finish. Allowing the salad to chill enhances the melding of flavors, making it a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. Overall, it's a well-balanced, nutritious, and versatile salad that can be enjoyed as a main or side dish.

Enhance Your Couscous and Walnut Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your couscous and walnut salad with a zesty touch of grilled lemon herb chicken. The citrusy notes and aromatic herbs will complement the nutty crunch of the walnuts and the fresh flavors of parsley.

Roasted Vegetable Medley: Pair the salad with a vibrant roasted vegetable medley. The caramelized edges of bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant will add a delightful contrast to the fluffy couscous.

Butternut Squash Soup: For a cozy touch, serve a warm bowl of butternut squash soup alongside the couscous and walnut salad. The creamy texture and sweet undertones of the soup will balance the savory elements of the salad.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Add a burst of color and flavor with stuffed bell peppers. Filled with a mix of quinoa, black beans, and corn, these peppers will provide a hearty and satisfying accompaniment to the salad.

Berry Fruit Tart: Finish your meal on a sweet note with a berry fruit tart. The crisp crust and juicy berries will offer a refreshing contrast to the savory couscous and walnut salad, making it a delightful end to your culinary experience.

Delicious Alternatives to Couscous and Walnut Salad

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Dive into a refreshing Mediterranean Quinoa Salad that bursts with flavors of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and kalamata olives. Tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this salad is perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish.

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: Indulge in the earthy sweetness of roasted beets paired with creamy goat cheese in this Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad. Finished with a sprinkle of walnuts and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, it's a symphony of textures and flavors.

Tabbouleh: Experience the classic Middle Eastern flavors of Tabbouleh, a refreshing salad made with bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Dressed in a simple lemon and olive oil dressing, it's a perfect accompaniment to any meal.

Farro and Roasted Vegetable Salad: Savor the hearty goodness of Farro and Roasted Vegetable Salad, featuring nutty farro grains mixed with roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions. Tossed in a tangy red wine vinaigrette, it's a wholesome and satisfying dish.

Lentil and Feta Salad: Enjoy the protein-packed Lentil and Feta Salad, combining tender lentils with crumbled feta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Dressed with a lemon and herb vinaigrette, it's a nutritious and flavorful option.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair With This Salad

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. Marinate the chicken in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. Grill to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables and quinoa for a balanced and nutritious meal. This dish is perfect for a summer evening, offering a burst of freshness and a hint of smokiness from the grill.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. Hollow out vibrant bell peppers and fill them with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked. Top with melted cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This dish is a hearty and satisfying option, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse that will leave your taste buds craving more. This decadent treat combines the smoothness of melted chocolate with the lightness of whipped cream, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Serve it in elegant glass cups and garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a few fresh berries for a touch of sophistication. Ideal for any occasion, this dessert is sure to impress your guests with its luxurious taste and beautiful presentation.

Lemon Tart: Brighten up your dessert table with a zesty lemon tart that combines a buttery shortcrust pastry with a tangy lemon curd. The crispiness of the crust perfectly complements the smooth, citrusy filling, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. Top it off with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness. This refreshing dessert is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, offering a burst of flavor that will leave everyone feeling refreshed and satisfied.

Why trust this Couscous and Walnut Salad Recipe:

This couscous and walnut salad recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, perfect for any occasion. The couscous is light and fluffy, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. Fresh carrots and parsley bring vibrant color and a burst of freshness. The olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing ties everything together with a tangy, rich taste. This recipe is easy to follow and ensures a delicious, nutritious dish that can be prepared ahead of time. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and the harmonious combination of ingredients.

Share your thoughts on the Couscous and Walnut Salad Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you've tried with this dish!

FAQ:

How do I toast the walnuts for this salad?

I like to toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re golden and fragrant. You can also toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, but keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.

Can I use a different type of vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?

Absolutely! If you don’t have red wine vinegar on hand, you can use apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar. Each will give a slightly different flavor, but they all work well.

Do I need to peel the carrots before adding them to the salad?

I usually peel the carrots to get a smoother texture, but if you prefer the extra fiber and nutrients from the skin, you can just give them a good scrub and leave the skin on.

Can I add other vegetables or ingredients to this salad?

Definitely! This salad is pretty versatile. You can add chopped bell peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or even some crumbled feta cheese. Feel free to get creative with it!

How long can I store this salad in the refrigerator?

You can store this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.