Heirloom Tomato Salad with Pearl Couscous

This Heirloom Tomato Salad with Pearl Couscous is a vibrant and refreshing summer salad, bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Featuring juicy heirloom and cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, crumbled feta, and chewy pearl couscous, it’s the perfect combination of hearty and light. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or healthy weekday lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A fresh, colorful, and seasonal summer dish
• Packed with Mediterranean flavors and textures
• High in fiber and protein from couscous and feta
• Can be made ahead and served cold
• Perfect side or light vegetarian main

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups vegetable stock
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (for toasting couscous)
• 1 cup pearl (Israeli) couscous
• 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves
• 1 clove garlic, crushed
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1/2 cup pitted green olives
• 4 heirloom tomatoes, quartered
• 15 cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 1 English cucumber, cubed
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil (for dressing)
• Juice of 1 lemon

Directions

1. Bring vegetable stock to a simmer in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toast couscous, stirring frequently, until golden brown (about 10 minutes).
3. Add toasted couscous to the simmering vegetable stock. Cover and cook until liquid is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a mixing bowl, fluff with a fork, and let cool to room temperature.
4. In a food processor, pulse basil, parsley, garlic, oregano, thyme, and olives until coarsely chopped.
5. Stir the herb-olive mixture into the cooled couscous.
6. Add heirloom tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese to the couscous mixture.
7. Drizzle with white balsamic vinegar, 1/2 cup olive oil, and lemon juice. Stir until evenly combined.
8. Chill for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10
Prep time: 35 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Additional time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or white beans.
• Make it vegan: Omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative.
• Use different grains: Substitute pearl couscous with farro, quinoa, or orzo.
• Try other herbs: Add mint or dill for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Best served cold or at room temperature. Not recommended for freezing.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours. Make it a day in advance for best results.

Can I use regular couscous instead of pearl couscous?

Pearl couscous is preferred for its texture, but regular couscous can be used in a pinch. Reduce cooking time accordingly.

What are heirloom tomatoes?

Heirloom tomatoes are open-pollinated, non-hybrid tomatoes known for their unique shapes, colors, and rich flavors.

Is there a substitute for white balsamic vinegar?

You can use regular balsamic or red wine vinegar, though it will slightly change the flavor.

Can I omit the olives?

Yes, the salad will still be flavorful without them, but they add a salty, briny bite.

What can I serve this with?

Great with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a Mediterranean mezze platter.

Is this gluten-free?

Traditional pearl couscous contains gluten. Use a gluten-free grain like quinoa for a GF version.

Can I use dried herbs?

Fresh herbs are recommended for optimal flavor, but dried can be used in smaller quantities.

How long does it last in the fridge?

It keeps well for up to 3-4 days when stored properly.

Can I use cherry tomatoes only?

Yes, if you don’t have heirloom tomatoes, just use more cherry or grape tomatoes.

Conclusion

Heirloom Tomato Salad with Pearl Couscous is the perfect summer dish, combining the freshness of garden vegetables with hearty couscous and bold Mediterranean herbs. It’s simple, flavorful, and ideal for gatherings or meal prep. Once you try it, you’ll want it on repeat all season long.

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