Savory Cherry Tomato Couscous Recipe

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of a Mediterranean classic with this delightful Cherry Tomato Couscous Dish. Elevating simple ingredients into a feast for the senses, this recipe has become a go-to lunch option during hot summer days. The magic lies in the contrast between sweet roasted cherry tomatoes and their fresh counterparts, creating an explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.

I stumbled upon this Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad during a scorching summer when using the oven felt like a daunting task. Leftover roasted tomatoes from a previous dinner found their way into my couscous salad, transforming it into a culinary masterpiece. The caramelized sweetness of the tomatoes adds a depth of flavor that takes this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Trust me, you won’t look back once you’ve savored this unique blend of tastes.

This versatile dish not only satisfies on its own but also pairs perfectly with grilled meats or fish, making it a complete meal. Whether enjoyed as a refreshing lunch or as part of a vibrant mezze platter for guests, this Cherry Tomato Couscous Dish is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, roast those cherry tomatoes to perfection, and prepare to be whisked away on a Mediterranean culinary adventure.

Quick Benefits

• Flavorful Layers: The contrast between sweet roasted and fresh cherry tomatoes creates a delightful depth of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile & Adaptable: This salad recipe can be easily customized with different ingredients like butternut squash, protein additions, and cheese swaps to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
• Meal Prep Friendly: The dish improves with time as flavors meld together, making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy days or weekly meal planning.
• Pairs Perfectly: This Mediterranean-inspired salad works well as a standalone meal or as part of a larger spread, complementing grilled meats, fish, wine, or mezze platters beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Cherry Tomato Couscous Recipe Recipe

• Flavorful Contrast: The combination of sweet roasted cherry tomatoes and fresh cherry tomatoes creates a delightful layering of flavors that make this simple dish extraordinary.
• Versatile and Adaptable: This recipe allows for variations based on what you have on hand, making it perfect for using up ingredients and adapting to seasonal produce.
• Make-ahead Friendly: The salad improves with time as the flavors meld together, making it a convenient option for meal prep. You can prepare components in advance and assemble just before serving.
• Perfect for Entertaining: This dish is versatile enough to be served as a side dish, part of a mezze platter, or as a light main course alongside grilled proteins. It’s great for hosting gatherings or potlucks.
• Refreshing and Light: The Mediterranean-inspired flavors of this dish make it perfect for hot summer days. Pair it with a glass of crisp white wine for a refreshing dining experience.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can swap out ingredients like feta cheese for goat cheese or plant-based alternatives, or try different additions like toasted pine nuts or avocado slices for added texture and flavor.
• Simple Preparation: Roasting the cherry tomatoes and cooking the couscous ahead of time streamlines the process. You can easily assemble the dish for a quick and flavorful meal.

Ingredients for Savory Cherry Tomato Couscous Recipe

Vegetables

• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Leaves from 6 sprigs fresh thyme, plus more for garnish
• 2 Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
• 4 cups cherry tomatoes, divided (half for roasting, half raw)

Pasta and Legumes

• 1½ cups roasted chickpeas, tossed with ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup dry Israeli couscous

Dairy

• ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese

Seasoning and Condiments

• ¼ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, plus more to taste
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• Freshly ground black pepper

Pro Tips for Savory Cherry Tomato Couscous Recipe

Pro Tip #1: Make ahead! Roast the cherry tomatoes and cook the couscous in advance to save time. Just store them separately in the fridge and assemble the dish before serving to preserve the flavors.

Pro Tip #2: Get creative with cheese! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option or want to switch things up, feel free to substitute the feta with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or a plant-based alternative for a unique twist.

Pro Tip #3: Enhance the flavors! When roasting the cherry tomatoes, ensure they caramelize and become tender for that rich umami taste. You can also experiment with different types of couscous, cheeses, and additional ingredients like toasted pine nuts or avocado slices to personalize the dish to your liking.

How to Make Savory Cherry Tomato Couscous Recipe

Step 1: Roast Cherry Tomatoes

Roast 2 cups of cherry tomatoes using your preferred method. Store in the refrigerator for up to a few days.

Step 2: Cook Couscous

Prepare the Israeli couscous according to package instructions until al dente, about 9 minutes. Drain and let cool.

Step 3: Prepare Dressing

Combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme leaves, sea salt, and black pepper in a large bowl, whisking together.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Combine the cooled couscous with the dressing in a bowl. Add halved raw cherry tomatoes, roasted cherry tomatoes, roasted chickpeas, fresh basil leaves, sliced cucumbers, and crumbled feta cheese.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle extra thyme leaves and basil on top of the salad, then drizzle generously with olive oil. Adjust seasoning, then serve promptly.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the freshness and flavors of the dish, it is recommended to keep the roasted tomatoes, cooked couscous, and any other components separately until ready to serve. By assembling the salad just before eating, you can preserve the crispness of the cucumbers and the aromatic freshness of the herbs. This dish actually benefits from some time for the flavors to meld together, making it a great option for meal prep throughout the week.

If you choose to make a larger batch of the salad for future meals, be sure to store it properly to ensure the best taste and texture. When refrigerated, the Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad can last up to 3-4 days. Feel free to customize the salad with different ingredients like goat cheese, ricotta salata, or plant-based cheese for a dairy-free option. Additionally, you can experiment with variations such as using regular couscous, pearl couscous, or quinoa to suit your preferences. Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger spread, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is a versatile and delicious option for any occasion.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch up the protein in this Cherry Tomato Couscous Dish, shredded rotisserie chicken or flaked salmon are excellent alternatives to roasted chickpeas. These options provide additional flavor and heartiness to the dish while still maintaining a balanced profile.

For a different twist on the salad, consider swapping the cherry tomatoes with roasted butternut squash during the colder months. This substitution will bring a sweet and nutty flavor to the dish, adding a comforting element that complements the couscous and other ingredients beautifully.

If you’re lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option, feel free to replace the feta cheese with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or a plant-based alternative. These substitutions will still provide a creamy and tangy element to the salad, enhancing its overall taste and texture without compromising on flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, serve the Cherry Tomato Couscous Dish in individual hollowed-out bell peppers or large heirloom tomatoes. Simply stuff the mixture into the peppers or tomatoes and top with extra feta and fresh basil leaves for a colorful and appetizing dish.

To create a Mediterranean-inspired grazing platter, arrange the Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad alongside bowls of hummus, marinated olives, grilled pita bread, and skewers of grilled halloumi cheese. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the couscous salad for an extra burst of flavor and serve with a selection of wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or even a light rosé for a delightful meal that’s perfect for entertaining.

FAQs for Savory Cherry Tomato Couscous Recipe

Can I prepare the roasted cherry tomatoes and cooked couscous ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the cherry tomatoes and cook the couscous ahead of time. Store them in the fridge and assemble the dish before serving for the best flavor.

Can I substitute feta cheese with something else?

You can substitute feta with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even a plant-based cheese for a dairy-free option.

How do I roast the cherry tomatoes for this dish?

Halve cherry tomatoes, toss with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until caramelized and tender.

Can I use a different type of grain instead of Israeli couscous?

Yes, you can use regular couscous, pearl couscous, or even quinoa as a substitute. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Cherry Tomato Couscous Dish becomes a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire, just as it has for me. The blend of flavors and textures in this dish truly captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine and is perfect for brightening up any meal.

Remember, don’t hesitate to make this dish your own by experimenting with different ingredients and variations. Whether you’re enjoying it as a standalone meal or as part of a larger spread, the versatility of this salad makes it a go-to option for any occasion. So gather your fresh ingredients, fire up your oven, and savor the deliciousness of this Cherry Tomato Couscous Dish. Happy cooking!