Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Name: Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth or water; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Balanced Kitchen

I really enjoy making Mediterranean Couscous Salad because it brings together fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors in a way that feels healthy yet satisfying. The lightness of the couscous, combined with colorful vegetables and a bright dressing, creates a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. I love how easy it is to prepare, and it works wonderfully as a side dish or a light lunch. Plus, you can customize it with whatever vegetables or herbs you have on hand, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:21:35.522Z

When I first tried making Mediterranean Couscous Salad, I was amazed at how quickly it came together while still delivering a burst of flavor. I started by toasting the couscous to enhance its nuttiness, which really made a difference in the final dish. The addition of fresh herbs like parsley and mint added a wonderful freshness that I didn't expect and took it to another level.

One tip I always keep in mind is to let the salad sit for a few minutes after tossing in the dressing. This allows all the ingredients to marinate and makes the flavors even more vibrant. It's a simple yet effective step that elevates the dish beyond just being a quick fix!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A colorful blend of fresh vegetables bursting with flavor
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Nutritious and filling, ideal for meal prep or outdoor picnics

Understanding Couscous

Couscous is an incredibly adaptable base for various dishes, and its delicate texture complements the vibrant flavors found in this Mediterranean Couscous Salad. When cooked properly, couscous will be fluffy and separate, providing the perfect vehicle for all the delicious ingredients. To ensure it cooks evenly, be careful not to over-stir once it’s added to the boiling liquid, as this can create a gooey texture instead of the desired lightness.

If you want to switch things up, you can substitute traditional couscous with whole wheat couscous or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Both alternatives will maintain the salad's nutritious profile while offering unique textures—quinoa introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, while whole wheat couscous remains light yet adds a subtle earthiness.

Flavor Boosting Ingredients

The addition of Kalamata olives and feta cheese not only enriches the Mediterranean flavor profile but also offers a satisfying brininess that balances the freshness of the vegetables. If you want to experiment, try substituting with pickled artichoke hearts or goat cheese. These alternatives provide different depth and tanginess, ensuring that your salad remains exciting with each variation you create.

Fresh herbs like parsley and mint play a crucial role in elevating this dish. I recommend tearing the mint leaves instead of chopping them to release their essential oils and preserve their vibrant flavor. This tip will help maintain the salad's bright aroma, enhancing every bite with freshness.

Storing and Serving Tips

This Mediterranean Couscous Salad is a great make-ahead option. Once prepared, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep or for packing in lunches. Just ensure to add the dressing shortly before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. If you plan to serve it at a gathering, consider chilling it for about 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

For serving, you can elevate the salad by incorporating grilled vegetables or proteins, such as chicken or shrimp, which pair wonderfully with the existing flavors. Serve it on a bed of lettuce or alongside some crusty bread for a wholesome meal that feels both indulgent and light.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth or water
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix these ingredients together for a delightful salad.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the salad:

Cook the Couscous

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let sit for 5 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the couscous is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. In a large bowl, combine the vegetables, olives, feta cheese, parsley, and mint.

Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.

Combine Everything

Add the cooled couscous to the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything gently to combine. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Chill in the refrigerator for a bit before serving for the best flavor.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this salad by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, such as chickpeas or grilled chicken, for added nutrition.

Customizing Your Salad

One of the joys of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize your Mediterranean Couscous Salad based on your preferences or what’s in season. Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even roasted eggplant can add new dimensions to the dish, infusing it with additional flavors and textures. Just ensure that, if adding roasted vegetables, they are cooled to room temperature before combining them with the other fresh ingredients to keep the salad crisp.

For a spicier twist, consider stirring in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes into the dressing. This would provide a warm kick that pairs delightfully with the salad's other components. If you have a penchant for nuts, toasted pine nuts or walnuts sprinkled on top can also add both crunch and richness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your couscous clumping or too sticky, it might have been overcooked or not fluffed properly after absorbing the liquid. To remedy this, you can add a small drizzle of olive oil and use your fork to gently separate the grains. This will break up any clumps and restore the fluffy texture you want in your salad.

Another potential issue is an overly salty salad, especially if using brined ingredients like olives and feta. Always taste as you go, and consider adding fresh vegetables or even a little additional lemon juice if you find the dish too salty. Balancing saltiness with acidity is a great technique to refine any flavor that feels out of place.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, this salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and add the dressing right before serving.

→ What can I use instead of couscous?

Quinoa or bulgur wheat are great alternatives if you want a gluten-free option.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with whatever fresh vegetables you enjoy.