As the golden sun warms your outdoor patio, imagine gathering your loved ones around a vibrant Mediterranean couscous bowl. This delightful dish brings together fluffy couscous, crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives—all kissed by a zesty lemon olive oil dressing. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors transport you to a sun-drenched Mediterranean village, creating the perfect setting for family bonding and culinary creativity. This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that will inspire joyful gatherings and shared memories.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups boiling water
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 1/4 cup lemon olive oil dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the couscous in a large bowl. Pour the boiling water over the couscous, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Add the diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and red onion to the bowl of couscous. Gently mix to combine.
- Stir in the kalamata olives, feta cheese, parsley, and mint.
- Drizzle the lemon olive oil dressing over the couscous mixture, and toss lightly to coat everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the couscous bowl with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of fresh citrus flavor.
Helpful Tips
- If you prefer a heartier meal, add some grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal preference. Zucchini, artichoke hearts, and avocados all make excellent additions.
- For a gluten-free version, use quinoa instead of couscous.
- To make the dressing, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1 minced garlic clove in a jar. Shake well to emulsify.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld together beautifully over time.
Pairings & Complementary Dishes
This Mediterranean couscous bowl pairs wonderfully with a light, refreshing drink like iced mint tea or a glass of chilled rosé. Serve with warm pita bread and hummus on the side for an authentic Mediterranean experience.
At Zynahz, our mission is to bring joy and creativity into your kitchen, one delightful recipe at a time. Try making this Mediterranean Couscous Bowl Recipe with your family, and share your delicious results with Zynahz. Don’t forget to share the recipe with friends who love to cook, and explore more culinary adventures on Zynahz. Follow us on social media for the latest recipes, and sign up for our newsletter to stay inspired.
