Imagine a vibrant bowl filled with fluffy couscous, crisp vegetables, and bright herbs – that’s what this Mediterranean couscous salad brings to your table. Perfect as a side dish or light main course, it’s not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors that transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast.
This salad is a fantastic way to use seasonal produce, and it’s super versatile. You can easily adapt it to your taste by adding your favorite ingredients. Whether it’s a picnic, BBQ, or a simple weeknight dinner, this salad will bring a burst of freshness to any meal.
With its zesty lemon dressing and the nutty texture of couscous, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors that are both refreshing and satisfying.
Vibrant Ingredients for a Mediterranean Delight
This Mediterranean couscous salad is a celebration of colors and textures. The fluffy couscous serves as a perfect base, providing a light and airy component to the dish. Each bite reveals a medley of fresh vegetables, including juicy cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, which add a refreshing crunch.
In addition to the vibrant cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, sweet bell peppers bring a hint of natural sweetness, while briny Kalamata olives provide a savory contrast. This combination creates a well-rounded salad that is both satisfying and invigorating.
Easy Preparation Steps
Preparing this couscous salad is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Begin by cooking the couscous; the simple process of combining it with boiling water allows it to absorb flavor and moisture easily. After letting it sit, a quick fluff with a fork ensures the couscous remains light and separate.
The next step involves mixing the chopped fresh vegetables in a large bowl. This is where your salad begins to take shape, with the bright colors of the vegetables inviting everyone to dig in. Drizzling a tangy lemon vinaigrette over this mixture adds a zesty flavor that enhances the overall freshness of the dish.
The Zesty Dressing
A key component of this Mediterranean couscous salad is the dressing. By whisking together olive oil and lemon juice, you create a flavorful blend that brings all the ingredients together. Adding just the right amount of salt and pepper ensures every bite is seasoned to perfection.
This dressing not only ties the salad together but also adds a delightful brightness that complements the vegetables and couscous. Allowing the salad to sit for a few minutes after tossing it with the dressing lets the flavors mingle and develop, enhancing the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. It’s delightful on its own as a light lunch or dinner option, but it also pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or fish, making it an excellent side dish for barbecues or gatherings.
Presentation plays a big role in the enjoyment of this dish. Serving the salad in a large white bowl garnished with fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also elevates its visual appeal. A rustic wooden table setting with lemon wedges and a small bowl of olive oil complements the fresh and wholesome vibe of the dish.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
This Mediterranean couscous salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it also offers several health benefits. Each serving is relatively low in calories, making it a smart choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. The combination of vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals, while the olive oil contributes healthy fats.
Moreover, couscous is a source of carbohydrates that can give you the energy you need throughout the day. With 6 grams of protein per serving, this salad can keep you feeling satisfied without being overly heavy, making it a wonderful addition to any meal plan.
Adapting the Recipe for Your Taste
One of the best aspects of this couscous salad is its adaptability. Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference. For example, adding roasted vegetables can bring a different flavor profile, while incorporating chickpeas can increase the protein content.
Additionally, experimenting with various herbs and spices can also personalize the dish to your taste. Consider adding fresh mint or basil for an aromatic twist, or sprinkle in some chili flakes for added heat. This versatility makes the Mediterranean couscous salad a delightful option for any occasion.
Delicious Mediterranean Couscous Salad
This Mediterranean couscous salad combines fluffy couscous with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers, tossed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for warm weather or as a complement to grilled meats.
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups boiling water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cucumber diced
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 1/4 red onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Couscous: In a bowl, combine couscous and boiling water. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Mix the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and parsley.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Everything: Add the fluffed couscous to the vegetable mixture, pour the dressing over it, and mix well. Gently fold in the feta cheese.
- Serve: Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
