Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Sicilian Cous Cous

In the heat of summer, nothing beats a refreshing and nutritious Mediterranean Pasta Salad. This recipe features Sicilian Cous Cous, a delightful variation of the traditional North African semolina pasta, which brings a unique texture and flavor to the dish. Combined with vibrant vegetables, tangy olives, creamy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing made with Garden of Eden Olive Oil Company’s finest extra virgin olive oil, this salad is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

Ingredients:

• Sicilian Cous Cous: 1 cup
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
• Cucumber: 1 medium, diced
• Kalamata Olives: 1/2 cup, pitted and halved
• Feta Cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled
• Red Onion: 1/4 cup, thinly sliced
• Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
• For the Dressing:
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1/4 cup
  • Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
  • Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon
  • Garlic: 1 clove, minced
  • Honey: 1 teaspoon (optional, for sweetness)
  • Salt and Pepper: to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sicilian Cous Cous:
   • In a medium saucepan, bring 1 1/4 cups of water to a boil. Stir in Sicilian Cous Cous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the water is absorbed and Cous Cous is tender. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
2. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Salad:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled Sicilian Cous Cous, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, halved Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped fresh parsley.
4. Add the Dressing:
   • Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
   • Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serving Suggestions:

• Garnish: Sprinkle additional chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese on top for a fresh and colorful presentation.
• Pairing: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or enjoy as a light vegetarian main dish.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Why Choose This Salad?

The Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Sicilian Cous Cous offers numerous health benefits due to its nutritious ingredients and balanced flavors. It is made from whole wheat semolina, providing complex carbohydrates and better blood sugar control. The salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants like lycopene and potassium. It also contains protein and calcium, and is low in sodium. The salad is versatile and can be served as a side dish or main course.

This Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Sicilian Cous Cous is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that offer a burst of flavors and textures. The Sicilian Cous Cous adds a delightful chewiness, while the combination of cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta cheese provides a balance of sweet, salty, and tangy notes. The dressing, made with Garden of Eden Olive Oil Company’s premium extra virgin olive oil, enhances the salad with its rich, fruity aroma and smooth texture.

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, packing a picnic, or looking for a refreshing weekday lunch, this salad is a perfect choice. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to impress with its Mediterranean charm. Enjoy the taste of summer with every forkful of this Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Sicilian Cous Cous!