Charred Corn Couscous Salad (Printable Recipe)
Vibrant couscous salad with charred corn and basil-lime dressing. Ideal for summer meals or weekly prep.
# Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Salad Base
01 -
1 cup dry couscous, cooked according to package instructions in salted water
02 -
1 ear yellow corn, kernels removed and charred
03 -
1 ear yellow corn, raw kernels removed
04 -
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
05 -
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
06 -
1 small shallot, finely diced
07 -
1/4 cup pepitas
08 -
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
09 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 -
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
11 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
12 -
Salt, to taste
→ Lime Basil Dressing
13 -
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
14 -
1 clove garlic
15 -
1/2 small jalapeño, optional
16 -
3 tablespoons olive oil
17 -
2 tablespoons lime juice
18 -
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
19 -
1 teaspoon maple syrup
20 -
Salt and black pepper, to taste
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil and salt it generously. Cook couscous according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
02 -
In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add olive oil. When hot, add cumin seeds and stir for 1 minute until fragrant. Add kernels from 1 ear of corn and spread out in the pan. Cook undisturbed for 3 minutes, toss, then cook another 2–3 minutes until charred.
03 -
Add shallots and a pinch of salt to the skillet. Sauté for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook 1 more minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
04 -
In a large bowl, combine the cooked couscous, corn mixture, remaining raw corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, pepitas, parsley, and a pinch of salt.
05 -
In a blender or food processor, combine basil, garlic, jalapeño, olive oil, lime juice, vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Blend until mostly smooth.
06 -
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until evenly coated. Serve immediately or store for later.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
Salt the cooking water for the couscous to enhance flavor.
02 -
Allow corn to char undisturbed in the skillet to develop flavor and texture.
03 -
Customize with additional proteins like tofu or seitan, or swap vegetables to taste.