Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Name: Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup black olives, sliced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 garlic clove, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cuisine Without Borders

I love whipping up this Mediterranean Couscous Salad when I want something fresh and vibrant. The combination of fluffy couscous, crisp vegetables, and tangy dressing creates a fantastic dish that feels both hearty and light. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side for gatherings. I often add chickpeas for a protein boost and to make it more filling. It’s one of those recipes that everyone loves, and it can be customized to include my favorite seasonal produce!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:25:36.272Z

When I first tried making Mediterranean Couscous Salad, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could come together to make something so delicious. The lightness of the couscous paired with the fresh vegetables and herbs is a game changer. I discovered that letting the salad sit for a little while before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste even more.

One tip I always share is to make sure your couscous is properly fluffed after cooking. This can be achieved by gently stirring with a fork instead of a spoon. This technique prevents clumping and ensures a fluffy texture that carries all the flavorful ingredients perfectly!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant and fresh flavors that brighten any meal
High in fiber and nutritious, perfect for a healthy lifestyle
Versatile: use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When preparing your Mediterranean Couscous Salad, the choice of vegetables can significantly influence the flavor profiles and texture. Opting for seasonal produce not only enhances freshness but also supports local farming. For instance, if you're making this salad in the summer, ripe heirloom tomatoes can add a sweet juiciness. In contrast, winter carrots can bring a satisfying crunch. Whatever you choose, the key is to chop your vegetables uniformly so they blend well and maintain a delightful crunch against the fluffy couscous.

The role of feta cheese in this salad is pivotal; it adds a creamy tang that balances the crispiness of the vegetables. If you prefer a dairy-free option, consider using crumbled tofu or a plant-based feta. Similarly, if you desire a bolder flavor, mixing in some soft goat cheese can offer a delightful twist. Just remember to keep the flavor harmony intact and adjust your dressing accordingly to account for any additional richness.

Techniques for Perfect Couscous

Cooking couscous might seem straightforward, but achieving that perfect fluffy texture requires attention. When you combine the couscous with boiling vegetable broth, it's essential to cover it immediately and remove it from heat to ensure it steams properly. Letting it sit for the full 5 minutes allows the grains to absorb moisture effectively, resulting in a light, airy consistency. If you find your couscous is too sticky, it might be due to excess water. A quick remedy is to use a fork to gently separate the grains, ensuring they don’t clump together.

If you're looking to infuse extra flavor into your couscous, think about toasting it lightly in a dry skillet before adding the broth. This step enhances its nutty flavor and adds depth to the dish. Toasting for about 3-5 minutes until golden brown is ideal. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as it can go from perfectly toasted to charred quite quickly.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup black olives, sliced

Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Instructions

How to Make Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Cook the Couscous

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the couscous is resting, chop the cucumber, tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, chopped vegetables, olives, and feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.

Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite ingredients, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or a different type of cheese. It's a great way to use up leftovers!

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Couscous Salad is incredibly versatile and can be tailored to fit various occasions. For a light lunch, serve it on a bed of mixed greens or alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. If you’re preparing it for a potluck or gathering, consider serving it in a large bowl with a beautiful platter of fresh herbs sprinkled on top for a vibrant presentation. My favorite is to pair it with a side of tzatziki for a cooling contrast.

If you plan to serve this dish later, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the crispness of the vegetables. This ensures the salad won’t become soggy and helps maintain the vibrant colors, making it more appetizing. Also, if you have leftovers, make sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad is perfect for making ahead, as the flavors meld beautifully when chilled overnight.

Customization Ideas

One of the joys of this Mediterranean Couscous Salad is its adaptability to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. You can easily swap out the vegetables for seasonal or personal favorites like zucchini, bell peppers, or even roasted beets. Each variation offers a unique flavor combination, making this dish a continual favorite in my home. You can even opt for grains such as quinoa or farro if you prefer a different texture or nutrient profile.

To add a delightful crunch and additional nutritional benefits, consider tossing in a handful of toasted nuts such as almonds or pine nuts. These will not only elevate the salad's texture but also provide healthy fats. If you enjoy some heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing can spice things up. Experimenting with different ingredient combinations keeps this salad exciting while still being simple and quick to prepare.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad tastes even better after sitting for a few hours, so feel free to prepare it in advance.

→ Is couscous gluten-free?

Traditional couscous is made from wheat, so it is not gluten-free. You can use quinoa or a gluten-free couscous alternative.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp work great for added protein.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can substitute or add any vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini.