Cold Couscous with Beets, Zucchini, and Mackerel

Do you know those days when you crave something fresh, light, but also super tasty? Well, the cold couscous with beetroot, zucchini, and mackerel is my salvation when I don’t know what to cook but want to bring something healthy and different to the table.

It’s a perfect unique summer dish for when it’s hot, especially because it can be prepared in advance and enjoyed cold.
I discovered it by chance, searching for summer couscous salad recipes, and since then I make it very often. The beetroot gives that amazing touch of color that makes everything instantly prettier (and more Instagrammable, let’s admit it!), the grilled or pan-fried zucchini add a crunchy and fresh note, and the mackerel gives it an extra kick, with its strong flavor and nutritional properties.

It’s also a great recipe for those looking for ideas for cold fish dishes.
The best part is that you can customize it however you like: sometimes I add a bit of crumbled feta or cherry tomatoes. Perfect to take to work, for a picnic in the park, or as a main dish for a light dinner with friends. Trust me, once you try it, it becomes a summer must-have.
Ideal for those seeking healthy recipes without sacrificing taste.

  • Difficulty: Very Easy
  • Cost: Very Affordable
  • Preparation time: 10 Minutes
  • Cooking methods: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Seasonality: Spring, Summer, All Seasons

Ingredients

  • 7 oz couscous
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 2 beets
  • 2 zucchini
  • 3 oz Asiago cheese
  • 5.5 oz mackerel
  • lemon zest
  • basil, salt, olive oil to taste

Tools

  • non-stick pan
  • stainless steel pots
  • cutting board

Steps

  • To prepare the cold beetroot, zucchini, and mackerel couscous, start with the beets:
    wash them, peel them, and cut them into small cubes. Boil in salted water.
    Once cooked, set aside the used water.

  • Dice the zucchini as well and cook them in a non-stick pan with a drizzle of olive oil.
    Pour 3/4 cup of the boiling water used for the beets over the couscous and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Fluff well with a fork and cover with a plate so that the water is absorbed.

  • Add the zucchini, cheese, beets, lemon zest, mackerel, adjust salt, and add fresh basil.

  • Mix well and refrigerate until serving.
    Enjoy your meal!

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cucinamica

Simple recipes from Italian cuisine, from appetizers to desserts.

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