This refreshing Couscous Salad is a light and healthy Mediterranean dish made with fluffy couscous, fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy lemon-olive oil dressing. Perfect as a side dish, picnic salad, or light lunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta or toasted pine nuts
Instructions
- Cook couscous: Place couscous in a large bowl and pour boiling water or broth over it. Cover and let sit for 5–10 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
- Prepare vegetables: Dice cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, finely chop red onion, parsley, and mint.
- Make dressing: Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Combine: Add vegetables and herbs to the couscous. Pour dressing over and toss gently to combine.
- Optional: Sprinkle with crumbled feta or toasted pine nuts for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve: Chill for 10–15 minutes for best flavor, then serve.
Tips & Variations
- For a gluten-free option, use quinoa instead of couscous.
- Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra depth.
- Use fresh lemon juice for bright, zesty flavor.
- Perfect for meal prep; store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
