If you have been craving a lovely quick dish that is healthy and simple, then you need this Caprese Couscous Salad . This salad is a new twist on the classic Italian Caprese but is made with light fluffy couscous making it suitable for use during summers for lunch, by-picnics, or as a dinner accompaniment. The pungent combinations of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, fresh basil leaves, and balsamic vinegar over-coat the filling layers of couscous. It is quite hearty, in the form of mouth-watering nutrition and luscious textures, yet it’s light and refreshing as a whole.

Ingredients Needed for Caprese Couscous Salad

You will only need a few ingredients for this that are very simple but taste very strong.

Fresh Vegetables

• 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 bunch of fresh basil leaves
• 1 medium cucumber, diced (optional)

Couscous and Mozzarella

• 1 cup of couscous (cooked according to package instructions)
• 1 cup of fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size)

Seasoning and Dressing

• 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar (or glaze for more sweetness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes for added spice

Benefits of This Salad

Nutritional Value

Caprese Couscous Salad is not only light but also has some nutritional aspects. We know tomatoes are a good source of the antioxidant lycopene therefore this key ingredient in the dish helps a lot to fight cancer. Another ingredient of the salad is mozzarella which provides calcium and protein. Couscous as a carbohydrate food is rich in fiber and energy thus this dish is not only healthy but also filling.

Light and Refreshing Meal

Most people will find this salad beneficial during summer because it is ensilised as well as serves to cool the body. Because of the fresh basil and tomatoes together with the light couscous this dish does not have to have any effort in cooking and feels great and healthy.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Caprese Couscous Salad

Ready to make this delicious salad? Let’s walk through the simple steps.

Preparing the Couscous

Now begins the process of cooking the couscous in question. Add some boiling water to the couscous(this usual takes a 1:1 proportion) and cover it for around five minutes until all of the water is absorbed. Using a fork, separate each grain of the couscous by fluffing it up.

Prepping the Vegetables

In the meantime, while the couscous cools, prepare the cherry tomatoes by washing and cutting them in halves and chopping the fresh basil leaves. In case you want to also add cucumbers for some extra crunch, chop them well into small bits.

Assembling the Salad

Mixing Ingredients

As soon as the cabbage has cooled off, it is added into a big mixing bowl. Add the chopped tomatoes, basil, and some mozzarella balls. You could also add chopped cucumbers if you want for a little extra crunch.

Adding the Dressing

Pour some olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad in a light drizzling manner. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and/or other spices to taste. Toss carefully to mix and coat everything with the dressing.

Best Tips for the Perfect Caprese Couscous Salad

How to Choose the Freshest Ingredients

• Tomatoes: Use firm, ripe cherry tomatoes with good flavor.
• Basil: The scent and taste of basils is best, whether in powder or in leaves, when they are pure and green.
• Mozzarella: Use fresh mozzarella balls (stored in brine) and that soft creamy feel that you require.

Adjusting for Personal Taste

This is that they are welcome to adapt the in any way they deem fit. Does it have to be more sour? Okay, let’s have more balsamic. Garlic is loved. Just a pinch or more than a pinch of garlic powder or fresh minced garlic would be helpful.

Variations of Caprese Couscous Salad

Adding Grilled Chicken or Shrimp

Grilled chicken or shrimp may be added to the salad for a more sumptuous dish that is still surprisingly light and delicious despite the added protein.

Vegan and Dairy-Free Options

Forget about the mozzarella cheese, or replace it with another non-dairy product for a vegan version. Whole grain varieties of couscous can also be put to use in a healthier option.

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Side Dishes

This salad can be enjoyed with warm crusty garlic bread, warm roasted vegetables or soup like tomato basil or minestrone which is wa and hers.

Pairing with Beverages

Served alongside the salad are the fresh green peppery flavors which will make one panda chicken request for wine. Also such drinks as champagne lemonade, sparkling water blended with lemon and even iced green tea go well with the salad.

Storing Leftovers and Meal Prep

Proper Storage Techniques

Any remaining salad including cabbage salad should be stored in a sealed container inside the refrigerator. It is possible for the salad to be stored for three days and not spoil.

How Long It Stays Fresh

Looking for the best possible fresh salad dressing? The salad is fresh for more than a couple of days but should be eaten in the first 24 hours for the tomatoes and couscous to remain crunchy.

Conclusion

Caprese Couscous Salad

This Caprese Couscous Salad is a light and refreshing dish in the Mediterranean cuisine, where the loose and fluffy grains of starch are combined with soft and sweet cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil. A high plain salad takes on a beautiful health aspect with the addition of oil and vinegar or dressing. The preparation does not take much time, about fifteen minutes worth of preparation and five minutes of cooking, and each serve contains approximately thirty two hundred calories. That salad is highly versatile and can be decorated with optional ingredients such as cucumber and grilled chicken to make it more hearty. It is great on its own or as a side, lunch, or light supper, and can last covered in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Save Recipe Print Recipe

👥 Servings 4

⏰ Prep Time 15 minutes mins

🍳 Cook Time 5 minutes mins

⌛ Total Time 20 minutes mins

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous cooked according to package instructions
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls bocconcini or ciliegine
• 1 medium cucumber diced (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze for sweetness
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Garlic powder or red pepper flakes for added flavor

Instructions

• Cook the Couscous:
• Boil water in a small saucepan and add couscous, following the instructions on the package. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
• Prepare the Vegetables:
• While the couscous cools, wash and halve the cherry tomatoes. Dice the cucumber if you're using it, and chop the basil leaves.
• Combine Ingredients:
• In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked couscous, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, cucumber (if using), and chopped basil.
• Make the Dressing:
• Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices like garlic powder or red pepper flakes.
• Toss and Serve:
• Gently toss all the ingredients until well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.

Notes

• For a heartier meal, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp to the salad.
• If you're vegan or dairy-free, swap the mozzarella for a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely.
• This salad is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American