Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Highlighted under: Fresh Collection
I absolutely love this Mediterranean Couscous Salad. It’s vibrant, full of flavor, and incredibly refreshing. Combining fluffy couscous with a mix of colorful vegetables, olives, and a tangy dressing, it has become my go-to dish for gatherings and meal prep alike. The best part is, it's so quick to make, taking under 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for summer picnics or as a side dish, it never fails to impress my family and friends!
When I first made this Mediterranean Couscous Salad, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The secret is in the quick-cooking couscous, which absorbs flavors beautifully and provides a light, airy base. I often add whatever vegetables I have on hand, making it a versatile dish that can easily adapt to my cravings.
One particular tip I found useful is to toast the couscous lightly before cooking it. This step enhances the nutty flavor and adds depth to the salad. Trust me, it’s a game-changer that elevates this dish!
Why You'll Love This Salad
- Bright, fresh flavors that awaken your palate
- Versatile ingredients that can be customized
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy days
Exploring Ingredient Freshness
When making the Mediterranean Couscous Salad, the freshness of your ingredients significantly affects the overall flavor and texture. Opt for ripe, in-season cherry tomatoes that burst with juicy sweetness, as they are the focal point of this dish. A crisp cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, while a finely chopped red onion elevates it with a mild, zesty bite. Always choose high-quality feta cheese for the best creamy texture, as it complements the other vibrant ingredients beautifully.
Don’t underestimate the role of herbs in this salad. Fresh parsley not only contributes a touch of color but also provides a bright, aromatic lift. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding fresh mint or basil for an additional layer of complexity. Remember, herbs should always be rinsed and dried properly to remove any grit before chopping for maximum flavor infusion.
Dressing for Flavor Balance
The dressing in this couscous salad is crucial for tying all the flavors together. By whisking olive oil and lemon juice together, you create a bright, tangy profile that enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables. For a little extra zing, try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, which not only thickens the dressing but also adds depth. Make sure to taste and adjust, as the right balance of salt and pepper is key to making each bite pop.
For those looking to modify the dressing, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can serve as excellent substitutes for lemon juice, providing a different but equally delightful zesty profile. If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider blending in Greek yogurt, which pairs nicely with the Mediterranean flavors and gives a rich mouthfeel without overpowering the dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
How to Make Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Prepare the Couscous
In a pot, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the couscous, remove from heat, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork once done.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Mix It All Together
Add the cooked couscous to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and mix gently until everything is combined.
Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Pro Tips
- For added protein, consider adding chickpeas or grilled chicken to this salad. It also holds up well for a few days in the refrigerator, making it a great meal prep option.
Make-Ahead Tips
This Mediterranean Couscous Salad is ideal for meal prep because it not only tastes better when it sits, but it also keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. To make it ahead of time, simply prepare the couscous and chop all the vegetables. Store them separately, and combine just before serving to maintain the freshness and crunch of the vegetables. This method prevents the dressing from making the ingredients soggy over time.
If you're planning to serve this salad at a picnic or gathering, consider assembling it in layers in a mason jar. Start with the dressing at the bottom, followed by the couscous, and then add the vegetables on top. This keeps everything fresh until you're ready to mix it up and enjoy. Just give it a good shake before serving!
Variations and Customizations
This salad is incredibly versatile, lending itself beautifully to seasonal variations. For a fall twist, consider adding roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes. A sprinkle of toasted nuts like pine nuts or almonds can add another dimension of flavor and a delightful crunch. You can also interchange the feta cheese with goat cheese or omit it completely for a vegan-friendly version, using avocado as a creamy alternative.
Don’t hesitate to mix up the grains as well! Quinoa or farro can be fantastic substitutes for couscous if you’re looking for a different texture or a more robust nutritional profile. Additionally, incorporating canned chickpeas or white beans can introduce plant-based protein, making this salad even heartier for a main dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for meal prep.
→ What can I substitute for couscous?
You can use quinoa or farro for a different flavor and texture.
→ Is this salad gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free couscous or another gluten-free grain, this salad can be gluten-free.
→ How long can it be stored in the fridge?
It can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
I absolutely love this Mediterranean Couscous Salad. It’s vibrant, full of flavor, and incredibly refreshing. Combining fluffy couscous with a mix of colorful vegetables, olives, and a tangy dressing, it has become my go-to dish for gatherings and meal prep alike. The best part is, it's so quick to make, taking under 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for summer picnics or as a side dish, it never fails to impress my family and friends!
Created by: Hester Lockwood
Recipe Type: Fresh Collection
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a pot, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the couscous, remove from heat, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork once done.
In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked couscous to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and mix gently until everything is combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Extra Tips
- For added protein, consider adding chickpeas or grilled chicken to this salad. It also holds up well for a few days in the refrigerator, making it a great meal prep option.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 29g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 6g