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Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Mediterranean Couscous Salad
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Mediterranean Couscous Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and light dish perfect for summer. Combining fluffy couscous with crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, tangy lemon dressing, and optional creamy feta cheese, this salad is quick to prepare and versatile for warm weather meals. Ideal for picnics, lunches, or as a colorful side, it offers a refreshing burst of Mediterranean flavors that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

Couscous Base

  • 1 cup fine or medium-grain couscous
  • 1 cup boiling water

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, sliced if needed
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, minced

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional

  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Couscous: Boil water and pour it over the couscous in a heatproof bowl. Cover tightly and let it steam for about 5 minutes until the water is absorbed. Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains and allow it to cool slightly.
  2. Chop the Fresh Ingredients: While the couscous cools, dice the cucumber and cherry tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, and mince the fresh parsley and mint leaves. Slice the olives if needed to ensure even flavor distribution.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. This simple yet vibrant dressing balances brightness and richness, bringing the salad to life.
  4. Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the fluffed couscous with all the chopped vegetables and herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad and stir to coat evenly. If using, crumble feta cheese on top and give the salad one last light mix.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Use a fork to fluff couscous instead of a spoon to avoid clumping and keep the grains light and airy.
  • Drain excess liquid from cucumbers or tomatoes if they are watery to prevent sogginess in the salad.
  • Use fresh parsley and mint for a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t replicate.
  • Adjust the dressing by adding more lemon juice or olive oil according to your taste preferences.
  • Allowing the salad to chill helps all ingredients marry and intensify their flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean Couscous Salad, Couscous Salad, Summer Salad, Healthy Salad, Vegetarian Salad, Light Meal, Picnic Salad

Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/mediterranean-couscous-salad/