Golden Couscous Salad

Brighten your table with this vibrant Golden Couscous Salad, a flavorful medley that’s perfect for a light lunch or an eye-catching side dish. Infused with turmeric for a warm golden hue, fluffy couscous forms the base of this refreshing salad, balanced by a mix of crisp diced cucumber, sweet dried apricots, and crunchy toasted almonds. Fresh parsley and scallions add a burst of herbaceous freshness, while a tangy homemade lemon-honey dressing ties it all together. Ready in just 20 minutes, this healthy, Mediterranean-inspired dish can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it an ideal make-ahead option. Packed with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and wholesome ingredients, this salad is sure to delight your senses and impress your guests. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a meal-prep superstar, this Golden Couscous Salad is as versatile as it is delicious!

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:5 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 1.25 cups water
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 0.5 teaspoons turmeric powder
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 0.5 cups dried apricots, chopped
• 0.5 cups fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 stalks scallions, thinly sliced
• 0.25 cups slivered almonds, toasted
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper, freshly ground

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, turmeric powder, and salt to the boiling water.

Step 2

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the couscous. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.

Step 3

Fluff the couscous with a fork and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Let it cool to room temperature, about 10 minutes.

Step 4

While the couscous cools, prepare the dressing by whisking together the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, honey, and black pepper in a small bowl.

Step 5

Once the couscous has cooled, add the diced red bell pepper, cucumber, dried apricots, parsley, scallions, and toasted almonds. Toss gently to combine.

Step 6

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss again to evenly coat all the ingredients.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed with additional salt or black pepper.

Step 8

Serve immediately, or refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1092.6 grams (1092.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1086

Total Fat 59.50g	76%
Saturated Fat 8.00g	40%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.10g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1580mg	69%
Total Carbohydrate 129.30g	47%
Dietary Fiber 20.40g	73%
Total Sugars 63.60g
Protein 21.40g	43%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 485mg	37%
Iron 13mg	73%
Potassium 2837mg	60%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 47.0%

Protein: 7.5%

Carbs: 45.4%