Spring Pea Feta Salad with Couscous

Looking to add a burst of fresh flavors to your table? Look no further than this Spring Pea Feta Couscous Salad! This delightful dish combines fluffy couscous with vibrant green peas, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy walnuts, all tied together with a homemade basil vinaigrette. Perfect for picnics, light lunches, or meal prep, this salad is as versatile as it is delicious.

The moment you savor a forkful of this Spring Pea Feta Couscous Salad, you’re greeted with a symphony of textures and tastes. From the nutty couscous to the sweet pops of peas and the salty creaminess of feta, every bite is a delightful experience. And let’s not forget about the star of the show—the basil vinaigrette—that coats each ingredient with a fresh, herbaceous flavor that is both light and luxurious. Whether served warm or chilled, this salad is a true celebration of spring flavors that will leave you craving more. Treat yourself to this vibrant dish that strikes the perfect balance between wholesome ingredients and mouthwatering taste.

Quick Benefits

• Versatile Dish: Works as a light main course, side dish, or meal prep option, offering flexibility in serving options.
• Balanced Nutrition: Provides a perfect balance of protein (feta cheese), carbs (couscous), and healthy fats (walnuts, olive oil) with vibrant spring flavors.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Improves in flavor as it sits, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for meal prep or entertaining.
• Satisfying Yet Light: Delivers satisfaction without heaviness, perfect for those craving freshness in a substantial dish.

Why You’ll Love This Spring Pea Feta Salad with Couscous Recipe

• Vibrant Flavors and Textures: Experience a perfect harmony of fresh flavors and delightful textures with tender couscous, sweet green peas, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy walnuts in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Serve warm for a cozy meal or chill for a refreshing cold salad, making it perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or a heartier vegetarian main by adding chickpeas.
• Make-Ahead Option: Ideal for meal prep or entertaining, this salad actually improves as it sits, allowing you to prepare it in advance without compromising on taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your guests at potlucks or gatherings with this salad that offers satisfaction without heaviness, appealing even to those who typically bypass salads.
• Ingredient Tips: Opt for quality couscous, frozen peas, block feta cheese, and fresh basil for the best taste and texture, enhancing the overall dish.
• Cooking Techniques: Master the blanching of peas, emulsifying the dressing, and balancing the flavors to elevate the salad’s vibrancy and taste.
• Culinary Fusion: Reflecting Mediterranean influences, this salad combines various culinary traditions in a contemporary yet approachable way, creating a refreshing and uniquely satisfying dish.
• Adaptable Presentation: Serve in a beautiful bowl, garnish with basil flowers for an elegant touch, and pair it with a wide range of main dishes for a versatile and visually stunning dining experience.

Ingredients for Spring Pea Feta Salad with Couscous

For the couscous salad

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 16 ounces (about 3 cups) frozen peas
• ½ cup water or chicken broth
• ½ cup uncooked couscous (not pearl couscous)
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

For the basil vinaigrette

• 1 shallot, cut in half
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• ½ cup olive oil

Pro Tips for Spring Pea Feta Salad with Couscous

When making the Spring Pea Feta Couscous Salad, ensure you fluff the couscous with a fork instead of a spoon to prevent a gummy texture. When blanching the peas, set a timer for exactly 2 minutes to maintain their vibrant color and slight crispness. To master the dressing consistency, add the oil to the blender last and in a slow, steady stream for a proper emulsion that evenly coats the ingredients.

For enhanced flavor, bring the feta cheese to room temperature before crumbling and adding to the salad. Start by adding less dressing than you think you need to avoid overdressing the salad, as couscous tends to absorb liquids quickly. Serve this versatile dish as a light lunch, a side dish, or add chickpeas for a heartier vegetarian main, showcasing the blend of Mediterranean culinary influences in a refreshing and contemporary way.

How to Make Spring Pea Feta Salad with Couscous

Step 1: Step 01

Bring water or chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Remove from heat, stir in couscous, cover, and let sit for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Step 2: Step 02

After letting the couscous rest, boil a large pot of water. Create an ice bath by filling a medium bowl with cold water and ice. Blanch frozen peas in the boiling water for 1-2 minutes until bright green. Drain peas in a colander and transfer them to the ice bath. Once cooled, drain the peas well before adding them to the salad.

Step 3: Step 03

Combine fluffed couscous, blanched peas, chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts or pecans in a large serving bowl.

Step 4: Step 04

Combine fresh basil leaves, olive oil, shallot, garlic, honey, white wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or honey to taste.

Step 5: Step 05

To make a warm salad, drizzle basil vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently. Serve immediately. For a cold salad, refrigerate the salad and vinaigrette separately for 1-2 hours. Toss salad with half of the dressing before serving, adding more to taste. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Spring Pea Feta Couscous Salad, it is important to store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavors. If you are not serving the salad immediately, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad is versatile and can be enjoyed warm right after preparation or chilled for a refreshing cold salad. Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together, making it a great make-ahead option for meal prep or entertaining.

To retain the best texture and taste, it is recommended to consume the stored Spring Pea Feta Couscous Salad within 2-3 days. Before serving any leftovers, you may want to give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing and ensure all the ingredients are well combined. This salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light main course, and its flavors will continue to develop as it sits in the refrigerator, making it a convenient and delicious option for quick and easy meals.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free option, you can easily substitute the couscous with quinoa or cooked millet. Both grains offer a similar texture and absorb flavors well, making them perfect alternatives in this salad. Ensure you adjust the cooking method and liquid quantity accordingly based on the grain you choose to use.

If you prefer a plant-based version, swap the feta cheese for a dairy-free alternative like crumbled vegan feta or even marinated tofu cubes. These options still provide a creamy element and savory flavor that complements the other ingredients. You can also experiment with different types of nuts such as almonds or pistachios in place of walnuts or pecans for varied textures and flavors in the salad.

Serving Suggestions

This Spring Pea Feta Couscous Salad can be elevated by serving it in individual lettuce cups for a fun and interactive presentation. Simply scoop a generous portion of the salad into a large, crisp lettuce leaf like butter or romaine, and fold it like a taco for a handheld, refreshing appetizer or light meal. The contrast of the cool, crunchy lettuce against the vibrant salad adds a new dimension to the dining experience, perfect for casual gatherings or outdoor picnics.

For a more elegant presentation, consider layering the Spring Pea Feta Couscous Salad in small glass jars or clear bowls to create a visually appealing parfait. Start with a base of fluffy couscous, then add a layer of the bright green peas, followed by crumbled feta and chopped nuts. Drizzle the basil vinaigrette over each layer for even distribution of flavors. This individualized approach not only showcases the beautiful colors and textures of the salad but also allows guests to see the components before mixing them together, adding a touch of sophistication to your table setting.

FAQs for Spring Pea Feta Salad with Couscous

Can I use pearl couscous instead of regular couscous in this recipe?

Pearl couscous has a larger size and different texture compared to regular couscous, which may affect the overall balance of the salad. It’s best to stick with regular couscous for this recipe to maintain the intended flavors and textures.

Can I substitute fresh peas with canned peas in this salad?

While fresh or frozen peas are recommended for their vibrant color and flavor, you can use canned peas as a last resort. Just be aware that canned peas may have a softer texture and slightly different taste compared to fresh or frozen peas.

How long can I store the prepared salad in the refrigerator?

You can store the prepared salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors may continue to meld and develop over time, making it a great make-ahead option for meal prep or gatherings.

Can I make the basil vinaigrette ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the basil vinaigrette a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the dressing even more delicious when it’s time to toss it with the salad ingredients.

Conclusion

As you prepare to create your own delightful Spring Pea Feta Couscous Salad, remember to embrace the vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and delightful textures that make this dish a true standout. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a side dish, or a main course, this salad offers a perfect balance that celebrates the essence of spring on every plate.

With every bite of the Spring Pea Feta Couscous Salad, you’re treated to a symphony of flavors that blend seamlessly together, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. The homemade basil vinaigrette elevates the salad to a whole new level, infusing each ingredient with a burst of herbaceous goodness. So, go ahead and whip up a batch of this versatile salad, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply enjoying a flavorful meal at home. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it!