- 6 ounces uncooked pearl couscous
- 1 cup finely chopped arugula
- 1/3 cup finely chopped sundried tomatoes in olive oil
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion
- 1 tbsp freshly minced dill
- ½ cup crumbled feta
- 1 large lemon, juiced
- 3 tbsp sundried tomato oil (the olive oil the tomatoes are jarred in)
- Salt and pepper
- Social Kitchens Professional Premium Shrimp Sliders
Couscous Pasta Salad brings together tender pasta, fresh vegetables, herbs, and a bright dressing for a dish that balances texture, acidity, and freshness. It’s a versatile preparation that can function as a side, a light entrée, or a component within a larger composed plate.
The pasta provides a satisfying foundation, while crisp vegetables and fresh herbs add contrast and brightness. A well-balanced vinaigrette brings everything together, coating each component without making the salad feel heavy. The combination creates a dish that is flavorful enough to stand on its own while remaining adaptable to a variety of menus and service styles.
For chefs, the recipe offers plenty of opportunity to customize based on ingredients and desired presentation. Different pasta shapes can change the texture and visual appeal, while seasonal vegetables, fresh herbs, olives, cheese, or toasted nuts can add additional layers of flavor. The dressing can also be adjusted with different acids, oils, or aromatics to complement the rest of the menu.
Couscous Pasta Salad is particularly useful for prep-friendly service. The pasta and dressing can be prepared ahead, allowing the flavors to develop before service, while delicate herbs and fresh garnishes can be added closer to plating. Serving chilled or at room temperature makes it equally practical for buffet, catering, or à la carte applications.
The finished dish is approachable but far from one-dimensional, using simple ingredients and thoughtful seasoning to create a salad with freshness, texture, and versatility. It’s an easy format for chefs to make their own while maintaining a reliable foundation for consistent service.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the couscous according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Add the cooked and cooled couscous to a large bowl along with the arugula, sundried tomatoes, red onion, dill, feta, lemon juice, sundried tomato oil, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to combine and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Serve alongside prepared Social Kitchens Professional Premium Shrimp Sliders and enjoy!
