Caprese Couscous Salad (Printable Version)

A fresh Mediterranean salad combining tender couscous, creamy mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil with balsamic glaze.

# What You'll Need:

→ Couscous

01 - 1 cup pearled Israeli couscous
02 - 1¼ cups water
03 - ½ teaspoon salt
04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ Salad

05 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
06 - 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
07 - ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
08 - 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
09 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Dressing

10 - 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
11 - 1 teaspoon honey, optional

# How to Make It:

01 - Bring water, salt, and 1 tablespoon olive oil to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add pearled couscous, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until tender and liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and cool to room temperature.
02 - Combine cooled couscous, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil in a large mixing bowl.
03 - Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and toss gently. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
04 - Transfer to a serving platter or bowl and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Add honey if glaze is too tangy. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for a chilled salad.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like something youd order at a fancy Italian restaurant
  • The couscous texture is pure comfort while still feeling light and fresh enough for summer
  • You can prep everything ahead and the flavors actually get better after a few hours in the fridge
02 -
  • Letting the couscous cool completely before mixing prevents the mozzarella from melting into a weird texture
  • The balsamic glaze is different from regular vinegar so dont try to substitute or the flavor will be way too harsh
03 -
  • Spread the hot couscous on a baking sheet to cool it down faster
  • Use the best quality mozzarella you can find since its really the star of the show
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