Mediterranean-Inspired Couscous Salad
Mediterranean-Inspired Couscous Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. With a mix of colorful vegetables, creamy feta, and aromatic herbs, this salad is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or a refreshing meal on a warm day.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this Mediterranean-Inspired Couscous Salad because it is quick and simple, making it a great choice for busy days. It is packed with healthy ingredients rich in vitamins and flavor. Plus, the bright tastes of lemon, fresh herbs, and various textures create a delightful experience with every bite. This salad is also versatile; you can enjoy it on its own or as a side with grilled meats or fish.
How to Make Mediterranean-Inspired Couscous Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups boiling water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint (optional)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Place couscous in a heatproof bowl.
- Pour boiling water over it, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork and let it cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled couscous with tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta, parsley, and mint (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Chill for 15–20 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
How to Serve Mediterranean-Inspired Couscous Salad
Serve your Mediterranean-Inspired Couscous Salad chilled or at room temperature. It works great as a side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or kebabs. You can also top it with extra feta or nuts for added texture and flavor.
How to Store Mediterranean-Inspired Couscous Salad
You can store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. If you prepare it ahead of time, make sure to add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
Tips to Make Mediterranean-Inspired Couscous Salad
- Allow the couscous to cool completely before mixing with other ingredients to maintain the salad’s texture.
- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used, but fresh will give the best flavor.
Variation
You can easily change this recipe by adding protein, like grilled chicken or chickpeas, for a heartier meal. You can also swap out the feta for goat cheese or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version.
FAQs
1. Can I use other grains instead of couscous?
Yes, you can use quinoa, bulgur, or farro as a base for the salad. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
Traditional couscous is made from wheat, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can use gluten-free couscous or substitute with quinoa for a gluten-free option.
3. Can I make this salad a day ahead?
Absolutely! Making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld together even more. Just keep it in the fridge and add the dressing just before serving for best results.
