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Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe

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4.4 from 228 reviews

A refreshing Mediterranean couscous salad combining fluffy couscous with fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red bell pepper, and aromatic herbs, all tossed in a zesty lemon-Dijon vinaigrette and topped with crumbled feta cheese. Perfect as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Couscous

  • 1 cup couscous
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Salad

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1 cup cucumbers (diced)
  • 1 red bell pepper (diced)
  • 1/3 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
  • 1/4 cup parsley (chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint (chopped)

For the Vinaigrette

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the Couscous: Bring water, olive oil, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in the couscous, remove from heat immediately, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff the couscous with a fork and allow it to cool completely.
  2. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled couscous with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, diced red bell pepper, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and fresh mint.
  3. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a jar with a secure lid, add olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Shake vigorously until emulsified. Alternatively, whisk all vinaigrette ingredients together in a bowl until well combined.
  4. Toss the Salad: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated and mixed thoroughly. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • The couscous can be cooled faster by spreading it on a baking sheet after fluffing.
  • For a vegan option, omit feta or substitute with a plant-based cheese.
  • Adjust the amount of honey in the vinaigrette to taste for sweetness.
  • This salad can be made a few hours ahead to allow flavors to meld; store covered in the refrigerator.
  • Add toasted pine nuts or olives for extra texture and flavor.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian