Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe

There’s something inherently comforting about sharing a meal that brings a piece of the Mediterranean right to your dining table. This Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe does just that, offering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that make it an ideal choice for family gatherings or a refreshing solo lunch. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients evoke the feeling of a sunny day by the sea, making it an irresistible combination of healthy and delicious. The tangy lemon vinaigrette perfectly complements the mix of fluffy couscous, crisp vegetables, and savory feta cheese, creating a medley that bursts in your mouth with every bite. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, ensuring that even the busiest of us can enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean anytime.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4

Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, pour the boiling water over the couscous. Cover and let stand for 5-10 minutes, until the water is absorbed.
2. Fluff the couscous with a fork and set aside to cool.
3. In a large salad bowl, combine the diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, red onion, parsley, and mint.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooled couscous to the salad bowl with the vegetables and pour the dressing over the top.
6. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring the couscous and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later. This salad tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld.

Helpful Tips

For added versatility, try incorporating different vegetables like bell peppers or swapping the feta for goat cheese. Adding a handful of toasted pine nuts or almonds can bring an extra layer of texture. If you prefer a stronger kick of flavor, add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika to the dressing.

Storage Instructions

This Mediterranean Couscous Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re out of couscous, quinoa makes an excellent substitute. For a vegan option, omit the feta cheese and add more olives or your favorite plant-based cheese.

Pairings

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. For a complete Mediterranean feast, serve it alongside warm pita bread and a bowl of hummus. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon makes a perfect drink to accompany this meal.

Here at Zynahz, our mission is to bring joy and creativity into every kitchen. We hope this Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe inspires you to gather loved ones around the table and relish the simple pleasures of a home-cooked meal. We’d love to see your culinary creations, so don’t forget to share your results with us! Spread the joy by sharing this recipe with friends and family, and be sure to explore more delicious recipes on Zynahz. Follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter to stay updated with our latest inspirations.