Name: How to Make Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad in 15 Mins
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 cup boiling water; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 200g halloumi cheese, sliced; 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds; 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1 small cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

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Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen just to prepare a nutritious meal? Do bland salads leave you unsatisfied and reaching for unhealthy snacks later? As a Mediterranean cuisine enthusiast who has perfected quick, flavor-packed meals, I’m excited to share this Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad that combines protein, whole grains, and vibrant ingredients in just 15 minutes. In this guide, you’ll discover how to select the best halloumi, prep ingredients efficiently, and create a restaurant-worthy salad that’s perfect for lunch or dinner any day of the week.

Why This Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad Recipe Works

Ready in just 15 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights
Balanced nutrition with protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats
Vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired flavors that satisfy without being heavy
Impressive presentation that works for casual lunches or dinner parties
No special equipment required – just basic kitchen tools

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad

Best Halloumi for This Recipe

Halloumi is the star of this salad, providing a satisfying protein element with its unique grillable texture. Look for authentic Cypriot halloumi cheese made from a mixture of sheep’s and goat’s milk for the best flavor and texture. The cheese should be firm but not too dry, with a visible folded texture. If you can’t find traditional halloumi, Greek “grilling cheese” or “frying cheese” can work as substitutes.

Couscous Selection Tips

For this 15-minute salad, instant couscous is essential. Pearl couscous (Israeli couscous) or Lebanese moghrabieh will require longer cooking times. The fine, instant variety absorbs liquid quickly and maintains a light, fluffy texture that’s perfect for salads. Whole wheat couscous adds extra fiber and nutrients if you prefer a healthier option.

Fresh Produce Must-Haves

Fresh pomegranate seeds add bursts of sweetness, while cucumber provides refreshing crunch. When selecting pomegranates, look for those that feel heavy for their size with firm, unblemished skin. Persian or English cucumbers work best as they have fewer seeds and a crispier texture.

Ingredients & Prep for Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad

Craving a fresh Mediterranean-inspired salad that's quick and bursting with flavor? Master the art of Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with our easy 15-minute recipe. Learn now! — Craving a fresh Mediterranean-inspired salad that’s quick and bursting with flavor? Master the art of Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad with our easy 15-minute recipe. Learn now!

Halloumi Prep Essentials

Pat halloumi dry with paper towels before cooking
Slice into 1/2-inch thick pieces for optimal grilling
Room temperature cheese cooks more evenly than cold

Salad Components

250g halloumi cheese
1 cup instant couscous
1 cup vegetable stock (hot)
1 pomegranate, seeds removed
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
3 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tbsp honey (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Quick Dressing

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey
1/2 tsp ground cumin
Pinch of salt and pepper

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad

Pre-Cooking Prep for Halloumi Salad

Pour hot vegetable stock over couscous in a large bowl, cover, and set aside for 5 minutes
Meanwhile, slice halloumi cheese into 1/2-inch thick pieces
Dice cucumber, chop herbs, and prepare pomegranate seeds
Whisk dressing ingredients in a small bowl

Cooking Halloumi to Perfection

Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat
Add 1 tbsp olive oil to the pan
Place halloumi slices in the pan and cook for 2 minutes per side until golden brown
Remove from heat and let cool slightly before cutting into cubes

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Assembling the Halloumi Couscous Salad

Fluff couscous with a fork and transfer to a large serving bowl
Add cucumber, pomegranate seeds, and fresh herbs
Gently fold in halloumi cubes
Drizzle with prepared dressing and toss to combine
Season with additional salt and pepper to taste

Final Presentation

Transfer to a serving platter or individual plates
Garnish with extra pomegranate seeds and herb leaves
Serve immediately while halloumi is still warm

Pro Tips for Perfect Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Don’t overcook the halloumi – it should be golden brown but still soft in the center
Fluff couscous properly to avoid clumping
Add dressing while couscous is still slightly warm for better flavor absorption
Don’t prepare too far in advance – this salad is best enjoyed fresh

Equipment Recommendations

Non-stick pan or well-seasoned cast iron for halloumi
Heat-proof bowl for couscous preparation
Sharp knife for clean halloumi slices
Citrus juicer for fresh lemon juice

Storage & Reheating

Best enjoyed fresh, but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours
Add extra dressing when serving leftovers as couscous absorbs liquid
Halloumi can be reheated briefly in a hot pan to restore some of its texture

Flavor Variations for Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad

Mediterranean Twist

Add kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, and crumbled feta for a Greek-inspired version. If you love Mediterranean flavors, you might also enjoy these Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches with their perfect blend of sweet and savory.

Plant-Based Option

Replace halloumi with grilled firm tofu marinated in lemon and herbs, or use roasted chickpeas for a vegan protein alternative.

Seasonal Adaptations

Season	Recommended Substitutions
Summer	Replace pomegranate with strawberries or blueberries
Fall	Add roasted butternut squash and dried cranberries
Winter	Use blood oranges and toasted walnuts
Spring	Add asparagus tips and fresh peas

Serving Suggestions for Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad

Serve as a main dish with warmed whole wheat pita bread
Pair with grilled vegetables for a complete vegetarian meal
Add as a side dish to complement Lemon Chicken Gnocchi for a Mediterranean-inspired feast
Accompany with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

For a fun appetizer before serving this salad, try these Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls that will delight your guests.

FAQs About Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can prepare the components separately up to 8 hours ahead. Cook the couscous and store it covered at room temperature. Prepare the vegetables and dressing and store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook the halloumi just before serving for the best texture and assemble everything right before eating.

How do I stop halloumi from becoming rubbery?

The key is to cook halloumi quickly over high heat, just until golden. Overcooked halloumi becomes tough and rubbery. Also, don’t slice it too thinly – 1/2-inch slices maintain a good texture with crispy outsides and soft centers.

What’s the best way to remove pomegranate seeds?

Cut the pomegranate in half, hold it cut-side down over a bowl, and tap the back firmly with a wooden spoon. The seeds will fall out with minimal mess. Alternatively, submerge the halved pomegranate in water and separate the seeds underwater to prevent juice splatter.

Can I use regular couscous instead of instant?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, which may extend your preparation beyond 15 minutes.

Enjoy Your Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad!

This vibrant 15-minute Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad brings Mediterranean flavors to your table with minimal effort. The combination of warm, crispy halloumi, fluffy couscous, and juicy pomegranate seeds creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or elegant enough for weekend entertaining. Give this recipe a try tonight and discover how simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary in just 15 minutes!

Join thousands of home cooks who have added this quick and delicious salad to their weekly rotation. Share your results with us on social media and let us know how you made this recipe your own!

How to Make Halloumi & Pomegranate Couscous Salad in 15 Mins