Name: Couscous Salad with Turkey and Arugula Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups water; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup couscous; 1 cup raisins; 1 cup Walnuts; ¼ cup lemon juice; ½ tsp fresh ground black pepper; 6 tbsp olive oil; 2 carrots; 1½ lb Turkey; 5 oz arugula

Indulge in a vibrant couscous salad featuring juicy turkey, crisp arugula, and crunchy walnuts. This satisfying dish brings together a medley of textures and flavors, perfect for a light lunch or a delightful dinner.

Photos of Couscous Salad with Turkey and Arugula Recipe

If you don’t have couscous, arugula, or raisins in your pantry, you may need to make a trip to the supermarket. These ingredients are essential to achieve the unique blend of textures and flavors in this recipe.

Ingredients For Couscous Salad With Turkey And Arugula

Water: Used to cook the couscous until tender.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the dish.

Couscous: Provides a fluffy base for the salad.

Raisins: Adds a touch of sweetness.

Walnuts: Offers a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

Lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity to the dressing.

Fresh ground black pepper: Brings a hint of spice.

Olive oil: Forms the base of the salad dressing.

Carrots: Adds a crunchy and slightly sweet element.

Turkey: Provides lean protein.

Arugula: Adds a peppery flavor and leafy texture.

One reader, Catlaina Egan says:

This couscous salad with turkey and arugula is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The toasted walnuts add a perfect crunch, while the lemon dressing ties everything together beautifully. It's a refreshing and satisfying meal that's easy to prepare. Highly recommend!

Catlaina Egan

Techniques Required for Making Couscous Salad with Turkey and Arugula

How to toast walnuts: Toast the walnuts over moderately low heat in a small frying pan, stirring frequently for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Alternatively, toast the nuts in a 350 degrees F oven for 10 minutes.

How to whisk dressing: In a large glass or stainless-steel bowl, whisk together lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the oil slowly while continuing to whisk to create a well-emulsified dressing.

How To Make Couscous Salad with Turkey and Arugula

Enjoy a filling serving of this couscous salad, made with a blend of crunch and flavors brought by turkey, raisins, and carrots, all in one healthy plate!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Stand Time: 5 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupswater
1tspsalt
1cupcouscous
1cupraisins
1cupwalnuts
¼cuplemon juice,(from about 1 lemon)
½tspfresh ground black pepper
6tbspolive oil
2carrots
1½lbturkey,(1 turkey), cooked
5ozarugula

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, bring the water and ½ teaspoon of salt to a boil. Stir in the couscous and raisins.
Cover, remove from the heat, and let stand for 5 minutes. Transfer the couscous and raisins to a large bowl to cool.
In a small frying pan, toast the walnuts over moderately low heat, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Alternatively, toast the nuts in a 350 degrees F oven for 10 minutes.
Remove the nuts from the pan and chop them.
In a large glass or stainless-steel bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and pepper. Add the oil slowly, whisking.
Toss the carrots, toasted nuts, turkey, arugula, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt with the cooled couscous.
Toss the salad into the dressing, then serve and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

If preferred, substitute 3 cups of shredded watercress or spinach leaves for the arugula.

Nutrition

Calories: 725.43kcal
Fat: 31.29g
Saturated Fat: 5.47g
Trans Fat: 0.11g
Monounsaturated Fat: 18.05g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.37g
Carbohydrates: 68.05g
Fiber: 5.13g
Sugar: 24.16g
Protein: 44.88g
Cholesterol: 122.47mg
Sodium: 816.19mg
Calcium: 121.60mg
Potassium: 977.94mg
Iron: 3.42mg
Vitamin A: 325.87µg
Vitamin C: 13.86mg

Mastering the Art of Cooking Couscous for Salads

When toasting walnuts, keep a close eye on them and stir frequently to ensure they don't burn. Toasting enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the couscous salad.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Couscous Salad Recipe

Pre-cook the turkey: Cook the turkey ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This way, you can quickly add it to your couscous salad without waiting for it to cook.

Use pre-shredded carrots: Save time by using pre-shredded carrots available at the grocery store. This eliminates the need for peeling and shredding.

Toast nuts in bulk: Toast a large batch of walnuts and store them in an airtight container. This way, you have toasted nuts ready for multiple recipes.

Instant couscous: Opt for instant couscous, which cooks faster and can be ready in just a few minutes.

Pre-make the dressing: Whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, and seasonings in advance and store in the fridge. This allows you to quickly toss the salad when needed.

Substitute Ingredients For Couscous Salad with Turkey and Arugula Recipe

couscous - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa has a similar texture and is also a good source of protein and fiber.
raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries provide a similar sweetness and chewy texture.
walnuts - Substitute with almonds: Almonds offer a similar crunch and nutty flavor.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
fresh ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar spiciness but with a slightly different flavor profile.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat content and a mild flavor.
carrots - Substitute with bell peppers: Bell peppers add a similar crunch and a sweet flavor.
turkey - Substitute with chicken: Chicken has a similar texture and flavor profile.
arugula - Substitute with spinach: Spinach provides a similar leafy texture and a mild flavor.

Presenting the Perfect Couscous Salad with Turkey and Arugula

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the couscous salad in a small, elegant bowl or on a pristine white plate to highlight the vibrant colors of the ingredients. Use a ring mold to shape the couscous into a neat, compact circle.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a few whole walnuts and a drizzle of olive oil around the couscous salad. Add a sprig of fresh herbs like parsley or mint for a pop of green.
Highlight textures: Arrange the toasted walnuts and julienned carrots on top of the couscous to showcase their contrasting textures. Ensure the arugula is fresh and crisp, adding a layer of visual and textural appeal.
Balance colors: Ensure the arugula is evenly distributed throughout the salad to provide a vibrant green contrast to the golden couscous and the orange carrots. The raisins will add a touch of dark sweetness, balancing the overall color palette.
Use high-quality ingredients: Emphasize the use of fresh, high-quality turkey by slicing it thinly and arranging it artfully on top of the salad. The lemon juice and olive oil dressing should be made with the finest ingredients to enhance the flavors.
Create height: Stack the turkey slices and arugula slightly higher in the center of the plate to create visual interest and dimension. This will make the dish look more dynamic and appealing.
Add a touch of elegance: Finish the presentation with a light sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and a few drops of lemon juice around the plate. This will add a final touch of sophistication and enhance the overall flavor profile.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Couscous Salad

Medium saucepan: Used to bring the water and salt to a boil and cook the couscous and raisins.
Large bowl: Needed to transfer and cool the couscous and raisins after cooking.
Small frying pan: Utilized for toasting the walnuts over moderately low heat.
Oven: An alternative method for toasting the walnuts at 350 degrees F.
Knife: Essential for chopping the toasted walnuts.
Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping the walnuts and preparing other ingredients.
Large glass or stainless-steel bowl: Used for whisking together the lemon juice, salt, pepper, and oil to make the dressing.
Whisk: Needed to combine the lemon juice, salt, pepper, and oil into a dressing.
Peeler: Used to peel the carrots before adding them to the salad.
Serving spoon: Useful for tossing the salad ingredients together and serving the final dish.

Storing and Freezing Couscous Salad for Later

Refrigerate the couscous salad in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together and intensify over time, making it even more delicious.
If you want to prepare the salad ahead of time, cook the couscous and store it separately from the other ingredients. Combine everything just before serving to prevent the arugula from wilting and the nuts from getting soggy.
To freeze the salad, omit the arugula and store the remaining ingredients in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw the salad overnight in the refrigerator and add fresh arugula before serving.
If you have leftover turkey, you can freeze it separately in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator and add it to the salad when ready to serve.
The dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in a separate container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Give it a good whisk before tossing it with the salad.

Interesting Trivia About Couscous Salad with Turkey and Arugula

A random fact about this recipe is that couscous is a staple food in North African cuisine, often served with meat or vegetables. It is made from steamed and dried semolina wheat and can be prepared quickly, making it a convenient ingredient for many dishes.

Is Making Couscous Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This couscous salad with turkey and arugula recipe is quite cost-effective. The main ingredients like couscous, carrots, and arugula are relatively inexpensive, while turkey provides a good protein source without breaking the bank. Raisins and walnuts add a touch of luxury but in small quantities. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Couscous Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

This couscous salad with turkey and arugula recipe is a healthy and nutritious option. Here's why:

Couscous is a whole grain that provides fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates.
Turkey is a lean protein source, which helps build and maintain muscle mass.
Arugula is a nutrient-dense leafy green, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron.
Carrots offer a good source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A.
Walnuts provide heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
Lemon juice adds a burst of vitamin C and helps enhance the absorption of iron from the turkey and arugula.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for whole wheat couscous to increase the fiber content and provide additional nutrients.
Reduce the amount of olive oil to lower the overall calorie count. You can also use a light drizzle of olive oil and supplement with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added flavor.
Include additional vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or bell peppers, to increase the variety of vitamins and minerals in the salad.
Use unsweetened raisins or replace them with fresh grapes for a natural sweetness without the added sugar.
Consider using a mix of baby spinach and arugula to boost the nutrient profile of the greens.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, like fresh mint, parsley, or a pinch of cumin, to add depth and flavor without relying on salt.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Couscous Salad

This couscous salad with turkey and arugula is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The sweetness of the raisins contrasts beautifully with the nutty crunch of toasted walnuts, while the lemon juice dressing adds a refreshing tang. The arugula provides a peppery bite, complementing the tender turkey and crisp carrots. It's a well-balanced, nutritious dish that's perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The preparation is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks. Overall, it's a vibrant and satisfying salad that showcases a harmonious mix of ingredients.

Enhance Your Couscous Salad with Turkey and Arugula Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine starting your meal with a velvety butternut squash soup, infused with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. The warmth of the soup complements the freshness of the couscous salad perfectly, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Picture a plate of tender asparagus, lightly charred on the grill and finished with a sprinkle of lemon zest. The bright, citrusy notes of the asparagus will elevate the arugula and turkey in your salad, adding a refreshing contrast to the dish.

Honey-Glazed Carrots: Envision a side of carrots glazed with a touch of honey and a dash of thyme. The natural sweetness of the carrots will enhance the savory elements of the couscous salad, creating a delightful interplay of flavors that is both comforting and sophisticated.

Cranberry and Orange Relish: Think of a tangy cranberry and orange relish, bursting with vibrant colors and flavors. This zesty accompaniment will add a burst of freshness to your turkey and arugula salad, making each bite a delightful experience.

Garlic and Herb Focaccia: Visualize a warm, garlic and herb infused focaccia, fresh out of the oven. The aromatic bread will provide a perfect contrast to the light and refreshing couscous salad, offering a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor with every bite.

Delicious Alternatives to Couscous Salad with Turkey and Arugula

Quinoa Salad With Grilled Chicken And Spinach: Dive into a vibrant quinoa salad featuring succulent grilled chicken and fresh spinach. This dish is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, perfect for a nutritious main course. The nutty quinoa pairs beautifully with the smoky chicken and the crisp, peppery spinach, all tied together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.

Farro Salad With Roasted Vegetables And Feta: Experience the hearty goodness of farro combined with a medley of roasted vegetables and tangy feta cheese. This salad is a symphony of flavors, with the chewy farro grains providing a satisfying base for the sweet and savory roasted veggies. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds the perfect finishing touch.

Barley Salad With Shrimp And Avocado: Savor the refreshing taste of barley salad with plump shrimp and creamy avocado. This dish is a perfect balance of light and hearty, with the barley offering a chewy texture that complements the tender shrimp and smooth avocado. A hint of lime juice brings a bright, citrusy note to the mix.

Lentil Salad With Roasted Beets And Goat Cheese: Indulge in the earthy flavors of lentil salad paired with sweet roasted beets and tangy goat cheese. This salad is a feast for the senses, with the lentils providing a protein-packed base and the beets adding a burst of color and sweetness. The creamy goat cheese ties everything together with its rich, tangy flavor.

Wild Rice Salad With Cranberries And Pecans: Delight in the nutty, chewy texture of wild rice combined with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans. This salad is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the wild rice offering a hearty base and the cranberries and pecans adding bursts of flavor and texture. A light honey mustard dressing brings it all together.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Couscous Salad

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start your meal. Imagine button mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are then baked until golden and bubbly, creating a perfect bite-sized treat. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, making them an irresistible appetizer.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never fails to impress. Picture slices of toasted baguette topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a touch of balsamic glaze, this appetizer is a burst of freshness and flavor. The crisp bread and juicy topping create a delightful contrast that will whet your appetite for the main course.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, molten center of this decadent dessert. The warm chocolate oozes out as you cut into the cake, creating a perfect harmony with the soft, spongy exterior. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an added touch of luxury. This dessert is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving for more.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Experience the zesty freshness of this classic dessert. The tangy lemon filling is perfectly balanced by the sweet, fluffy meringue topping. The crisp, buttery crust adds a delightful texture to each bite. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal, and watch as your guests savor every mouthful.

Why trust this Couscous Salad with Turkey and Arugula Recipe:

This couscous salad with turkey and arugula recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. The couscous provides a light and fluffy base, while the raisins add a touch of sweetness. Toasted walnuts bring a satisfying crunch, and the lemon juice dressing ties everything together with a zesty finish. The addition of carrots and arugula ensures a fresh and vibrant salad. Trust this recipe for its balanced ingredients and straightforward instructions, guaranteeing a delicious and nutritious meal every time.

Share your thoughts on the Couscous Salad with Turkey and Arugula Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How do I cook the turkey for this salad?

You can cook the turkey by roasting, grilling, or even pan-searing it. Just make sure it's cooked through and then slice or shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts with almonds, pecans, or even pine nuts if you prefer.

What can I use instead of arugula?

If you're not a fan of arugula, you can use spinach, mixed greens, or even kale as a substitute.

How long will this salad keep in the fridge?

This salad will keep well in the fridge for about 2-3 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate and toss it in right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.