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!

