Fresh, Flavorful Mediterranean Couscous Salad That You’ll Crave
Ever had a salad that tastes like summer on a plate? This Mediterranean Couscous Salad is a colorful blend of fresh ingredients that will have your taste buds dancing. With its vibrant veggies and zesty dressing, it’s the perfect quick fix to bring excitement to your table without the fuss of cooking for hours. Plus, it’s just as delicious served cold as it is fresh!
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you whip up this salad tonight? Here are a few reasons you’ll love it:
- Easy Cleanup: No one wants to deal with a mountain of dishes after dinner. This salad is a simple one-bowl recipe that makes cleanup a breeze!
- Budget-Friendly: You don’t need to splurge on expensive ingredients. This is a wholesome, affordable dish that won’t break the bank (or your heart!).
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will dig into this—who can resist colorful veggies and creamy feta?
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Getting this salad ready is a piece of cake. Just follow these simple steps:
- Cook the couscous according to package instructions. Let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, tomatoes, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooled couscous to the vegetable mixture, then pour the dressing over it. Toss to combine.
- If using, sprinkle feta cheese on top before serving. Enjoy your salad!
How to Make Mediterranean Couscous Salad (Overview)
Making this delicious salad is as easy as 1-2-3 (well, 5 actually). First, you’ll cook the couscous until it’s fluffy and cool it down—nobody likes hot salad! Then, mix all your colorful veggies in a giant bowl. While that’s happening, whisk together your zesty dressing. Finally, combine everything and take a moment to admire your masterpiece before devouring it. Pro tip: Let the salad sit for a bit to let those flavors mingle! 😉
How to Serve Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Serve your Mediterranean Couscous Salad in a big, beautiful bowl where all those sun-kissed colors pop! Add a sprinkle of feta on top for that creamy, tangy texture. This salad tastes fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. The crunch of the veggies and the aroma of lemon will make it hard to resist going back for seconds (or thirds!).
How to Store Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Thinking ahead? This salad stays fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just store it in an airtight container—easy peezy! Make it in advance for lunches or dinners all week. If you want to get creative later, throw in some extra veggies or roasted chicken to mix things up. Just avoid freezing, or you might end up with a weird texture situation!
Tips to Make Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Here are some insider tricks to take your salad to the next level:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes make a significant difference in flavor.
- Customize the Texture: Add a few nuts or seeds for a satisfying crunch.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare your couscous and dressing separately and toss them together just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Swap Ingredients: If you’re not a cucumber fan, try bell peppers or even roasted veggies for a different twist.
Variation
Want to change it up? Here are some delicious twists for your Mediterranean Couscous Salad:
- Go vegan: Omit the feta and add some avocado for creaminess.
- Change the grains: Substitute couscous with quinoa or farro for a different flavor profile.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a dash of heat.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or swap in your favorites like zucchini or carrots.How long does this salad last?
It keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days.Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Just skip the feta or use plant-based cheese for creaminess.
Ready to make your meal exciting? This Mediterranean Couscous Salad is waiting for you!
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Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous Use whole wheat for a healthier option.
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed Also known as garbanzo beans.
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced Use English cucumber for less seeds.
- 1 piece bell pepper, diced Any color works, but red or yellow adds sweetness.
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped Adjust amount based on sweetness preference.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped Can substitute with basil for a different flavor.
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled Optional but adds a creamy texture.
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the couscous according to package instructions. Let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, tomatoes, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooled couscous to the vegetable mixture, then pour the dressing over it. Toss to combine.
- If using, sprinkle feta cheese on top before serving.
Notes
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