Welcome to a delightful recipe that embodies the beauty of simple, yet flavorful, cooking — our Couscous and Apricot Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing. This salad is unique in its combination of fluffy couscous, sweet dried apricots, and a citrusy lemon herb dressing, making it the perfect dish to bring family and friends together around the table. Whether it’s a cozy fall dinner or a vibrant spring brunch, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups boiling water
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, diced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large heatproof bowl, combine the couscous and boiling water. Cover and let sit for 10 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the couscous is fluffy. Fluff with a fork.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Add the diced apricots, parsley, mint, feta cheese, and pine nuts to the couscous. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Helpful Tips
To save time, you can prepare the couscous a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This salad is also highly versatile; you can add your favorite vegetables like diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for added crunch and color. If you prefer a vegan version, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the salad even more delicious the next day!
Pairings
This couscous and apricot salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing citrus-infused iced tea.
We hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful Couscous and Apricot Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing. Don’t forget to share your creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. We love seeing your culinary masterpieces! Visit our website Zynahz to leave feedback, and be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates. Follow us on social media for more inspirational recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!
