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Couscous salad classic dish

October 28, 2025
couscous salad
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couscous salad

couscous salad

Couscous salad packs Mediterranean flavor in every bite. Fresh veggies, lemon, and mint create the ultimate light meal experience.
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Total Time 26 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup couscous
  • 1.25 cup hot water
  • 0.5 unit lemon juiced
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 0.5 unit cucumber diced
  • 0.25 cup red onion diced
  • 0.25 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 0.25 cup fresh mint chopped
  • 0.5 cup parsley chopped
  • 0.25 cup kalamata olives quartered

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, add the couscous and salt.
  2. Pour hot water over the couscous, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes until the water is absorbed.
  3. Fluff the couscous with a fork to loosen the grains.
  4. Add olive oil and lemon juice to the couscous and mix to combine.
  5. Stir in the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta, mint, parsley, and olives.
  6. Toss everything together gently until well mixed.
  7. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Looking for an adaptable dish that pleases everyone, from busy home cooks to those hosting a casual dinner? Couscous salad is an all-star recipe that shines as a main course at lunch, a refreshing side, or a make-ahead potluck favorite. Its charm lies in the flexibility — you can customize it endlessly and still get amazing results.

Practical Tips and Ingredient Swaps

For the fluffiest couscous, use just-boiled water, cover the bowl tightly, and don’t be tempted to stir before the resting time is up. For best texture, fluff with a fork instead of a spoon — this keeps the grains light. If you’re out of feta, try goat cheese for a creamy tang, or sun-dried tomatoes if cherry tomatoes aren’t in season. Kalamata olives can be switched for green olives or simply left out for a milder flavor.

Expert Prep Techniques

Dice vegetables evenly for better presentation and consistent bites. When prepping herbs like mint and parsley, pat them dry and chop just before mixing in to keep their color and aroma bright. If you want an extra touch, toast the couscous in a pan with a drizzle of olive oil before adding water — it gives the salad a deep, nutty flavor.

Serving & Variations

Couscous salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prep. For a heartier version, add grilled chicken or chickpeas. Try mixing in arugula, roasted peppers, or avocado for new twists. If you’re pairing, serve this salad with grilled meats, falafel, or as part of a mezze platter with hummus and warm pita bread.
Don’t forget: couscous absorbs flavors over time, so a quick rest before serving makes it even better. Taste and adjust with extra lemon or olive oil to suit your preferences. Enjoy exploring the possibilities!
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Mileni Sabatini

Milena is a passionate home cook who finds joy in turning simple ingredients into wholesome Mediterranean-inspired meals. Writing on the blog lets her share not just recipes, but her love for balance and everyday wellness.

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