Mediterranean-Inspired Couscous Salad
Introduction
Mediterranean-Inspired Couscous Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish perfect for lunch or dinner. It is packed with colorful vegetables and bursting with flavors. This salad is not only easy to make but also healthy, making it a great option for anyone looking to add more wholesome recipes to their meal rotation.
Why Make This Recipe
This salad is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weekdays or gatherings with friends. The combination of textures from the crunchy vegetables and creamy feta cheese creates a delightful eating experience. Plus, it is a great way to use seasonal ingredients, providing you with a refreshing taste of the Mediterranean.
How to Make Mediterranean-Inspired Couscous Salad
Making this couscous salad is a simple process that anyone can follow. With just a few ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to serve in no time!
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 the couscous in a heatproof bowl.
- Pour the boiling water over the couscous, cover, and let it 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 to make the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled couscous, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, sliced Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and mint (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything to combine.
- Chill the salad for 15–20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
How to Serve Mediterranean-Inspired Couscous Salad
This salad can be served on its own as a light meal or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. It is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners. You can also serve it in a bowl with extra feta and herbs on top for a beautiful presentation.
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 3-4 days. The flavors may even improve as the ingredients continue to meld together.
Tips to Make Mediterranean-Inspired Couscous Salad
- Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients.
- For a protein boost, consider adding chickpeas or grilled chicken.
- If you prefer a bit of spice, adding some red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor.
Variation
If you want a different flavor profile, you can try using quinoa instead of couscous. You can also switch up the dressing by adding different herbs or spices, such as garlic or oregano.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can make this salad a few hours in advance. Just remember to keep it in the refrigerator to stay fresh.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
No, traditional couscous is made from wheat. However, you can substitute it with gluten-free grains like quinoa for a gluten-free option.
3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh ones; however, fresh herbs will give you a more vibrant flavor. If you use dried herbs, remember that a little goes a long way!
Enjoy making your Mediterranean-Inspired Couscous Salad! It’s a quick, tasty, and nutritious choice for any meal.
