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Couscous salad

couscous salad

Couscous salad full of flavor and colors. Easy, quick and ideal for light lunches or dinners that won't weigh you down.
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Total Time 26 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup couscous
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 unit lemon juiced
  • 0.5 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 0.5 cup cucumber diced
  • 0.25 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 0.25 cup parsley chopped
  • 0.25 cup mint chopped
  • 0.25 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 0.25 cup black olives sliced
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Method
 

  1. Place the couscous in a large bowl. Add salt and pour the hot water over it. Cover and let stand for about 5 minutes until all the water is absorbed.
  2. Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Mix gently.
  3. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, mint, feta cheese, and black olives to the couscous. Season with black pepper and toss everything until well combined.
  4. Check seasoning and adjust salt or lemon juice if necessary. Chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

Refreshingly simple and endlessly adaptable, couscous salad has become a staple in kitchens worldwide. Its light texture and vibrant mix of ingredients make it perfect for quick lunches, healthy dinners, or even as a crowd-pleasing side at your next gathering. Couscous absorbs flavors beautifully, making each bite burst with fresh Mediterranean notes.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Couscous

  • Use just enough hot water—too much leaves couscous mushy, too little keeps it dry. The 1:1 ratio ensures fluffy results every time.
  • Let it sit covered for at least five minutes before fluffing; this helps the grains steam and separate with ease. Fluff gently with a fork instead of stirring, so it stays airy.
  • If you want to elevate the flavor, swap water for hot vegetable or chicken broth.

Clever Ingredient Swaps & Additions

  • No feta? Try goat cheese or grilled halloumi for a different creamy texture.
  • Substitute cherry tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a smoky twist, or add arugula for peppery freshness.
  • Boost protein by tossing in chickpeas or grilled chicken for a satisfying main course.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

Serve your couscous salad chilled for the freshest taste, or at room temperature if preferred. This dish pairs wonderfully with roast lamb, grilled fish, or falafel. For a Mediterranean feast, accompany it with a side of tzatziki and warm pita bread. Leftovers are perfect for meal prep, retaining flavor and texture even after a day in the fridge.
Let your creativity shine! Mix in your favorite herbs, swap veggies, or brighten things up with pomegranate seeds for a pop of sweetness and color. Every bowl of couscous salad can be your own signature creation!