Ingredients
1 cup pearl couscous (Israeli couscous)
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon salt (for cooking couscous, plus more to taste)
3 ripe medium peaches, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
1/4 cup tahini
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from 1–2 limes)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Black pepper to taste
Optional: toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pearl Couscous. Bring 2 cups of water (or vegetable broth) and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the pearl couscous, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the couscous is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Drain any excess water if necessary. Fluff with a fork and spread on a baking sheet to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Peaches. While the couscous cools, wash and thinly slice the 3 ripe peaches. Set aside.
Step 3: Whisk the Tahini Dressing. In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup tahini, 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup), 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the dressing is smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add 1-2 teaspoons of warm water until it reaches a pourable consistency.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooled pearl couscous, sliced peaches, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint. Pour the prepared tahini dressing over the mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, lime juice, or honey to your preference.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish. Transfer the Pearl Couscous with Peaches & Tahini to a serving bowl. Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately at room temperature, or chill for at least 30 minutes for a more refreshing experience. Enjoy!
Notes
For the best flavor, use very ripe, fragrant peaches. This dish can be made ahead of time and chilled for up to 3 days. If making ahead, add extra fresh mint and a squeeze of lime juice just before serving to refresh the flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dishes
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: pearl couscous, peaches, tahini, summer salad, vegetarian, side dish, mediterranean, easy recipe, fruit salad, couscous salad

