Pearl Couscous Salad Recipe

Name: Pearl Couscous Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 5 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups pearl (Israeli) couscous; 2.5 cups water; 0.5 cup French lentils; 2 Roma (plum) tomatoes, diced; 1 small cucumber, seeded and diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 0.5 cup dried cranberries; 0.5 cup golden raisins; 0.33333334326744 cup diced red onion; 0.25 cup 1/2-inch slices of fresh chives; 1 green onion, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley, or more to taste; 1 teaspoon ground sumac; 0.25 cup olive oil; 2 lemons, juiced; 2 tablespoons honey, or more to taste; salt and ground black pepper to taste

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

Couscous:

5 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups pearl (Israeli) couscous
2 cups water

Lentils:

cup French lentils

Salad:

2 Roma (plum) tomatoes, diced
1 small cucumber, seeded and diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
cup dried cranberries
cup golden raisins or sultanas
cup diced red onion
cup thinly sliced fresh chives (Optional)
1 green onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley (or more to taste)
1 teaspoon ground sumac (Optional)

Dressing:

cup olive oil
2 lemons, juiced
2 tablespoons honey (or more to taste)
Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: To prepare the couscous, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the couscous and stir continuously for 3 to 4 minutes, toasting it until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden.

Step 2: Once toasted, pour in 2 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, until the couscous is tender and the water is absorbed.

Step 3: Drain the couscous and rinse it under cold water in a colander. Then, transfer it to a large serving bowl and stir in the remaining 4 tablespoons of olive oil until evenly coated.

Step 4: While the couscous cooks, place the lentils in a small pan, cover them with water, and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until the lentils are tender.

Step 5: Drain the lentils and rinse them under cold water in a colander. Add the drained lentils to the couscous in the large serving bowl.

Step 6: Prepare the salad by adding the diced tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, cranberries, raisins, red onion, chives, green onion, parsley, and sumac (if using) to the couscous and lentils. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 7: To make the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until everything is well combined.

Step 8: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 9: For the best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight if possible) to allow the flavors to blend.

Cook's Notes

This salad is best when chilled for 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully develop.
You can adjust the sweetness of the dressing according to your taste. If you prefer it tart, reduce the amount of honey.
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to a week.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	560
Total Fat	21g (27%)
Saturated Fat	3g (15%)
Sodium	43mg (2%)
Total Carbohydrate	82g (30%)
Dietary Fiber	10g (35%)
Total Sugars	22g
Protein	13g (25%)
Vitamin C	34mg (38%)
Calcium	53mg (4%)
Iron	3mg (15%)
Potassium	511mg (11%)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin of Pearl Couscous Salad

Pearl couscous, also known as Israeli couscous, originated in Israel in the 1950s as a substitute for rice. This versatile pasta is larger than traditional couscous and has a chewy, satisfying texture. The salad version is a refreshing dish that is popular in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. While it is often served as a side dish, it can also be a main course thanks to its hearty and filling ingredients. The combination of couscous, lentils, dried fruits, and a tangy lemon dressing makes this salad a perfect blend of textures and flavors.

Regional Features and Variations

Although this salad is often associated with Middle Eastern cuisine, it has regional variations across the Mediterranean. For instance, in some regions, you might find pearl couscous salads garnished with roasted vegetables, olives, or fresh herbs like mint or basil. The addition of dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, gives a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the couscous and lentils. The use of sumac, a tangy spice native to the Mediterranean, adds a distinct flavor that is a hallmark of Middle Eastern salads.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Pearl couscous salad stands out from other couscous-based dishes due to its larger grains and chewy texture. Traditional couscous, often smaller and more granular, is cooked quickly and has a lighter consistency. In contrast, pearl couscous takes longer to prepare and provides a more substantial bite. Moreover, the addition of lentils, dried fruits, and fresh vegetables makes this salad richer in texture and flavor compared to simpler couscous salads. Unlike tabbouleh or couscous salads that rely primarily on herbs and vegetables, this dish incorporates a variety of ingredients that create a complex and fulfilling meal.

Where This Salad is Served

Pearl couscous salad is commonly served as a side dish at gatherings, barbecues, or potlucks, especially in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. It can also be enjoyed as a light lunch or dinner. The salad is often featured in mezze platters, a selection of small dishes served as appetizers or snacks. Its refreshing taste makes it particularly popular during warmer months, making it a favorite for summer picnics or outdoor parties. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, kebabs, or falafel, making it a versatile addition to any Mediterranean meal.

Interesting Facts About Pearl Couscous Salad

Did you know that pearl couscous was originally created to address food shortages in Israel in the 1950s? It was designed as a cost-effective substitute for rice and other grains.
This dish can be made ahead of time! In fact, it often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together.
Pearl couscous is sometimes referred to as "Jerusalem couscous" in Israel, where it is a staple ingredient in many households.
While this salad is naturally vegetarian, it can easily be adapted to include protein-rich ingredients like grilled chicken or feta cheese.
The lemon dressing, with its balance of sweetness from honey and acidity from lemon juice, is a key component that ties all the ingredients together.

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FAQ about Pearl Couscous Salad Recipe

The Pearl Couscous Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week when covered properly. The flavors actually improve if you let it sit for a few hours or overnight before serving.

Yes, this salad is great for making ahead. In fact, it tastes better after the ingredients have had time to meld together. You can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

It's not recommended to freeze this salad because the texture of the couscous and vegetables may change when thawed. It's best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator.

Yes, you can substitute the French lentils with other types, such as green or brown lentils. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of lentil you choose.

Absolutely! You can adjust the sweetness of the dressing by increasing or decreasing the amount of honey to your liking. Some people prefer a more tart dressing, while others enjoy a sweeter version.

If you don't have sumac, you can substitute it with a little lemon zest or a mixture of lemon juice and ground cumin for a similar tangy flavor.

Yes, you can use other types of couscous such as regular couscous or whole wheat couscous. However, note that cooking times and textures may vary depending on the type you use.

You can substitute raisins and cranberries with other dried fruits like chopped dates, apricots, or dried cherries. The salad will still maintain a sweet and tangy flavor.

Yes, you can skip the olive oil when cooking the couscous if you prefer a lighter version. Just make sure to rinse the couscous well after cooking to prevent it from being too sticky.

Yes, you can use other oils like avocado oil, canola oil, or even a flavored oil such as sesame oil for a different taste. However, olive oil is the most commonly used and works best in this recipe.

Comments

Carolyn Cruz

05/10/2024 03:12:08 PM

I initially submitted this recipe after testing it out a couple of times. Since then, I've made some modifications that I'd like to share. I've removed the step of adding oil to the cooked couscous, and I now prefer to use half a can of lentils instead of cooking them from scratch, as they seem to add moisture to the dish. Rather than making the dressing separately, I now squeeze fresh lemons directly over the bowl, then add a couple of splashes of oil and a drizzle of honey on top. Be sure to mix everything thoroughly. While it's enjoyable to eat right after preparing it, my family and I actually prefer it the following day, once the raisins and cranberries have plumped up.

John Williams

04/26/2025 06:50:58 PM

Rewritten review: This salad is fantastic. Instead of cooking the couscous and lentils in water, I used vegetable broth which added great depth of flavor. The only extra touch I added was some chopped Kalamata olives, around 1/3 cup. The flavors of the salad developed beautifully as it rested, so now I prefer making it a couple of days in advance before serving. It's a definite winner! I particularly enjoy the variety of textures in this dish.

Jacob Wright

02/25/2023 01:40:12 PM

I swapped kalamata olives for the raisins and craisins, used red onion instead of green onion, omitted the chives, and included 1 tsp. of zaatar spice. The dish was a big success!

Dorothy Green

12/21/2022 03:10:21 PM

This salad is a perfect representation of spring for me! I adore the variety of contrasting flavors, textures, and presentation in this dish. I opted to use canned lentils, which I thoroughly washed and drained before adding. After rinsing the couscous, I decided to skip the oil since the salad dressing already contains it.

Robert Martinez

03/11/2025 01:57:41 AM

A satisfying meal for my vegetarian household, with a diverse range of ingredients that add depth and flavor. This recipe requires a good amount of chopping, so next time I'll delegate that task to my husband, who is quicker at it. Following the Cook's Note advice, I may reduce the amount of honey to one tablespoon to balance the sweetness, which is already complemented by the cranberries and raisins. I also swapped the French lentils for green lentils, and it worked perfectly well.

Emily Martinez

07/27/2024 07:36:26 AM

Outstanding! I didn't have all the ingredients on hand, so I substituted mixed lentils, fresh basil, and oregano for a few items. I also used garlic flakes, crushed red pepper, and garlic pepper instead. The textures and flavors were amazing! This salad was a refreshing change of pace. Thank you!

Stephen Ramirez

02/16/2024 01:46:18 PM

This salad has become my top choice for the summer season! Although the preparation time is a bit long, it yields a large quantity and stays fresh in the refrigerator. I made a few adjustments - I left out the sumac and included 1 tsp of cumin in the dressing. I also opted for cilantro instead of parsley to complement the cumin. It turns out delicious no matter how you customize it!

Scott Taylor

05/23/2023 01:59:53 PM

I walked into my kitchen, tired after a long day out, unsure of what to whip up for a fast and light meal. This salad was just what I needed! It's tasty and easy to prepare. I decided to double the lentils for an extra nutritional boost. While the couscous and lentils were cooking, I chopped the veggies and whipped up the dressing. One heads-up though – keep an eye on the couscous while it's cooking; mine got a tad mushy in just 8 minutes. Make sure to check yours before the 10 minutes recommended in the recipe.

Dorothy Nguyen

04/10/2023 01:28:57 AM

I absolutely loved this dish! I omitted the lentils due to personal family preferences, but the lemon dressing was absolutely fantastic!

Donna Torres

03/07/2023 01:27:19 PM

I absolutely adore this! Instead of using fresh lentils, I substituted with canned lentils and added two additional lemons to enhance the flavor.

Andrew Nguyen

08/28/2022 11:38:49 PM

Very good! Dan enjoyed it. Just be careful not to make it too sweet and consider reducing the portion size. Perfect for a potluck event!

Samuel Williams

01/16/2025 09:06:14 AM

AMAZING SUMMER SALAD!! I usually avoid salads with fruits like cranberries and raisins, but this dish completely changed my mind! My son and I couldn't stop praising it. The flavors are absolutely spot on! I can't wait to make it again!

Adam Anderson

05/17/2023 07:06:36 AM

I was pleasantly surprised by this recipe - it claimed to serve six, but it easily fed 12 people with plenty of happy bellies. For those who prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of honey used. Personally, I found the recipe to be delicious as it is. I even enjoyed the leftovers for breakfast the next morning. YUM!

Maria Allen

05/26/2025 10:33:48 AM

I tried this recipe at a baby shower party and it was a big hit! I'm planning to make it again for my musician friends. I followed the recipe exactly and it turned out perfectly. I suggest making it a day in advance to let the flavors blend together.

Linda Sanchez

08/26/2023 04:04:16 PM

I've made this salad twice now, and both times it was devoured in no time! The second time I made it, my sons were visiting and I caught them boasting to their wives about it while feeding them from the open fridge. They were amazed that their dad could whip up something so delicious and healthy!

Brian Scott

08/09/2022 02:08:28 AM

Wouldn't change anything about it. I served this dish as a side at a casual dinner gathering.

Joshua Campbell

06/13/2024 06:27:08 AM

I substituted chopped dates for raisins and it was absolutely delicious!

Adam Wilson

08/26/2024 09:56:54 AM

I absolutely loved the dressing! I had never used pearl couscous before and decided to make a salad, so this recipe was a fantastic starting point. I improvised with the additional ingredients, but stuck to the dressing as written, and my family absolutely adored it!

Samuel Carter

09/03/2023 07:20:20 AM

The recipe shared by the home chef for our Canadian Thanksgiving dinner was absolutely fantastic! I thoroughly enjoyed it and now I have the recipe so I can make it whenever I want, which will definitely be frequently.

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