Couscous Salad Southwest Style

This is my favorite salad to bring to a summer potluck.  It tastes great (of course), holds up well in the heat and serves a ton of people.  By the end of each summer I suspect my family and friends are sick to death of this salad but that’s just too bad for them!

Couscous Salad Southwest Style

I clipped this recipe from the Oregonian newspaper over a decade ago and I’ve altered it a bit over time.  Thanks to my friend Roberta for discovering the recipe so many years ago!

Couscous can make a mess if you use too small a bowl.  I use my largest mixing bowl to assemble the salad then move it to a slightly smaller bowl for serving.  This recipe makes a large batch of salad and can serve around 8-10 people at a picnic and even more at a potluck.

For this recipe you’ll need:

  • 1 1/2 cups couscous
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 sweet onion, finely chopped (or substitute 1 cup chopped green onion)
  • 2 red bell peppers, diced into small chunks
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro, plus extra for garnish
  • 15 ounce can sweet corn, rinsed and drained
  • 15 ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • salt and pepper to taste

If you are using boxed couscous, follow the instructions on the box to cook it.  If you are using instant couscous from the bulk section (that’s what I use), put the couscous in a very large mixing bowl.  Stir in 1 1/2 cups boiling water.  Let sit for 5 minutes.  If the couscous is still a bit crunchy in the middle add another 1/4 cup of boiling water.

Prepare the dressing.  Whisk together the oil, lime juice, vinegar and cumin in a small bowl.  Pour over the couscous, stir until evenly distributed and fluff with a fork until any large clumps are broken up.  Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Stir in all remaining ingredients.  Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

The salad can be served immediately but it tastes best if allowed to sit for at least an hour.

Enjoy!

Southwest Style Couscous Salad