Go Back
+ servings
Summer Melon Couscous Salad

Delightful Summer Melon Couscous Salad Perfect for Picnics

This Summer Melon Couscous Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish perfect for summer picnics, combining juicy fruits and a zesty dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • 0.25 cup extra-virgin olive oil consider avocado oil as a light substitute
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice and zest lemon juice can be used for a citrus swap
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced garlic is a substitute
  • 1 tablespoon coarse ground mustard Dijon mustard works in a pinch
  • 1 tablespoon honey try maple syrup or agave for vegan options
  • kosher salt adjust to your taste preference
  • black pepper adjust to your taste preference
For the Salad
  • 1 cup cooked pearl couscous quinoa or bulgur can be a tasty alternative
  • 2 cups honeydew melon opt for cantaloupe or watermelon for a twist
  • 1 cup green grapes swap for sliced apples or pears for a crunchier bite
  • 1 whole cucumber zucchini is a suitable substitute
  • 2 stalks green onions red onion can offer a sharper taste if desired
  • 1 whole avocado silken tofu serves as a non-dairy alternative
  • fresh herbs (mint, basil, tarragon, parsley) feel free to mix herbs based on your personal selection

Equipment

  • Bowl
  • Pot
  • Whisk
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of extra-virgin olive oil, lime juice and zest, ginger, and mustard until well combined. Add honey, then season with salt and pepper.
  2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add one cup of pearl couscous and simmer for 10-12 minutes. Drain excess water and spread couscous on a baking sheet to cool.
  3. While the couscous cools, chop the honeydew melon, slice the grapes, cube the cucumber, slice green onions, and dice the avocado.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooled couscous, honeydew, grapes, cucumber, green onions, avocado, and chopped herbs.
  5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture, toss gently to coat all ingredients.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. Serve chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 125mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep avocado separate until ready to serve.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!