This Black Bean and Couscous Salad is a colorful, nutritious, and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The couscous adds a fluffy, light base, while the black beans provide protein and fiber. Fresh vegetables like red bell pepper, green onions, and corn bring a crisp texture, and the lime-cumin dressing adds a zesty kick that ties everything together.
Whether you serve it as a side dish at a barbecue or as a light lunch, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s also easy to make ahead, making it ideal for meal prepping or potlucks. Feel free to customize the ingredients by adding avocado, cherry tomatoes, or even some crumbled feta cheese for added richness.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup uncooked couscous
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 8 green onions, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
- 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the Couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in the couscous, remove from heat, and cover. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the couscous is tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, red wine vinegar, and ground cumin.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the chopped green onions, red bell pepper, cilantro, corn, and black beans. Add the cooked couscous and gently toss to combine.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and stir until all the ingredients are well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a side dish or main course.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 290 kcal per serving | Servings: 8 servings
What Makes This Salad Special:
The Black Bean and Couscous Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines wholesome ingredients with a zesty dressing, making it a go-to option for quick, healthy meals. The pairing of couscous and black beans creates a nutrient-dense base that’s both filling and energizing. Couscous, a tiny grain-like pasta, absorbs flavors effortlessly and has a fluffy texture that balances the tender, creamy texture of black beans. The inclusion of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, green onions, and corn adds crunch and brightness, making every bite satisfying and full of contrasting textures.
Health Benefits:
This salad is packed with nutrients that support a balanced diet:
- High in Fiber and Protein: Thanks to the black beans and couscous, this salad is a great source of dietary fiber and plant-based protein, making it ideal for anyone looking to increase their protein intake without consuming meat.
- Low in Calories: With around 290 kcal per serving, this salad is a lighter option that still keeps you satiated for hours. It’s perfect for those watching their calorie intake but still wanting a nutritious meal.
- Rich in Antioxidants: The red bell peppers and cilantro are loaded with antioxidants like vitamin C and carotenoids, which help fight inflammation and support immune function.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: The olive oil in the dressing provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, contributing to better cardiovascular health.
How to Serve and Pair:
- Serve as a Standalone Dish: This salad works well on its own as a light lunch or dinner, especially during the warmer months when you want something fresh and cool.
- Pair with Proteins: You can serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
- Use in Wraps: Spoon some of this salad into a whole-wheat wrap or pita bread with some sliced avocado and leafy greens for a delicious on-the-go meal.
Flavor Enhancements:
While the recipe as written is delicious, there are several ways to take it up a notch:
- Add More Freshness: Chopped cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, or shredded carrots can add even more texture and color.
- Introduce Creaminess: Mix in some diced avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt to bring an extra layer of creaminess.
- Sprinkle Some Cheese: A small amount of feta or goat cheese adds a tangy and creamy contrast, especially if you’re not following a vegan diet.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips:
- Make Ahead: This salad is perfect for meal prep. Simply make a large batch and divide it into individual containers for a week’s worth of lunches or dinners.
- Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. If making in advance, consider adding the dressing right before serving to keep the salad crisp and prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Freezing: This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh ingredients and delicate texture of the couscous. However, the black beans can be cooked and frozen separately to save time when making future batches.
Perfect for Entertaining:
Because it’s colorful, easy to prepare, and served cold, this salad makes an excellent addition to any potluck, picnic, or barbecue spread. It holds up well at room temperature, so you don’t have to worry about it spoiling quickly. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to a variety of dietary preferences, making it a safe bet for gatherings with friends and family.
Dietary Modifications:
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap couscous with quinoa or millet for a gluten-free alternative that still offers a fluffy texture and mild flavor.
- Oil-Free: Omit the olive oil in the dressing and replace it with an extra splash of lime juice or a bit of tahini for a creamy, oil-free dressing option.
Conclusion:
The Black Bean and Couscous Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors, colors, and cultures that come together to create a wholesome meal. Its simplicity and versatility make it suitable for a wide range of occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. The balance of textures and nutrients ensures that this salad is both satisfying and nourishing, catering to various dietary preferences and needs.