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 cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Juice of 1 lemon; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Health Plates

I love making Mediterranean Couscous Salad for a refreshing and vibrant dish that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of fluffy couscous, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs makes every bite a burst of flavor. Plus, it's quick and easy to whip up, which is a major bonus for busy days. I often serve it as a side dish or a light main course, and it never fails to impress my family and friends. The colors and textures inspire me, and it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the tastes of the Mediterranean at home.

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:37:35.942Z

When I first made this Mediterranean Couscous Salad, I was amazed by how easy it was to prepare. The light, fluffy couscous served as the perfect base, and pairing it with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers really made it pop. Using a simple dressing of olive oil and lemon juice elevated the flavors beautifully.

One tip I learned is to let the couscous sit covered for a few minutes after boiling. This helps it absorb all the flavors from the dressing and vegetables, resulting in a wonderfully cohesive salad. It's a dish that I consistently return to, especially during warm months.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and crisp flavors that brighten up any meal
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion
Versatile enough to be a side or a light main dish

The Role of Couscous

Couscous is the star of this salad, providing a lovely base that absorbs flavors beautifully. The light, fluffy texture allows it to blend seamlessly with the fresh vegetables. When cooking couscous, using vegetable broth instead of water enhances its flavor profile significantly. Make sure to let it sit uncovered for a few minutes after cooking, as this resting period helps achieve that perfect fluffy consistency, preventing it from clumping together.

Another key aspect of couscous is its cooking time—just a few minutes is all it takes. This quick cooking method means you can whip up this salad in a flash, making it an excellent go-to for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. I always keep couscous on hand since it’s a versatile grain that pairs well with various seasonings and ingredients.

Ingredients Matter

Using fresh vegetables is essential for taking this Mediterranean Couscous Salad to the next level. The vibrant colors from the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper not only make the dish appealing but also contribute to its refreshing taste. When selecting tomatoes, opt for ripe, juicy ones for maximum flavor; their sweetness will contrast beautifully with the salty feta cheese. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with canned tomatoes, but fresh is always best.

Don’t overlook the importance of fresh herbs in this salad. Parsley adds a burst of freshness that complements not just the vegetables but the entire dish. If you're feeling adventurous, try substituting parsley with fresh mint or basil for a unique twist. These herbs can elevate the Mediterranean flavors and introduce new aromatic notes to your salad.

Serving and Storage Tips

This salad can be served immediately, but I often find that it tastes even better after sitting for a bit. Allowing it to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes lets the flavors meld, creating a more cohesive dish. If you're planning to make it ahead of time, prepare the components separately—store the couscous and vegetables in airtight containers and combine just before serving to maintain freshness.

For leftover salad, simply store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep in mind that the couscous may absorb some of the dressing over time, so you might want to add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice when serving leftovers. This helps restore its brightness and keeps it enjoyable even on subsequent days.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful salad.

Salad Ingredients

1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Juice of 1 lemon
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's move on to the preparation.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Mediterranean Couscous Salad.

Cook the Couscous

In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in the couscous, remove from heat, cover, and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork once ready.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the couscous is cooking, chop the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and red onion, ensuring they're roughly the same size for consistent bites.

Mix the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, diced vegetables, and parsley. Add the crumbled feta cheese.

Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. Serve the salad at room temperature or chilled.

Enjoy your fresh and delicious Mediterranean Couscous Salad!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider adding chickpeas or grilled chicken. You can also customize the vegetables based on what’s in season or on hand.

Variations and Creative Twists

While this Mediterranean Couscous Salad is delicious as it is, feel free to experiment with additional ingredients. Chickpeas can add protein and make it a heartier meal, while olives and artichoke hearts bring their own distinct Mediterranean flair. You can also swap in whole grain couscous or quinoa for a different texture, lending a nuttier flavor and keeping it gluten-free.

If you are looking for a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine vinegar to the dressing or incorporating grilled vegetables. Grilled zucchini or eggplant can be a wonderful addition, especially during the summer months when these vegetables are in season. They enhance the dish with smokiness that pairs well with the fresh herbs and crisp veggies.

Troubleshooting Tips

It's essential to monitor the couscous while cooking to avoid overcooking. If it becomes mushy, it may lose its appealing texture and flavor. Always use the recommended vegetable broth measurement for perfectly tender yet firm couscous. If you find yourself with a batch that has become too sticky, you can fluff it with a fork and drizzle a little olive oil to separate the grains.

For those who are new to making dressings, be cautious with the salt and pepper. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to ensure it aligns with your preference. If you accidentally over-season, adding a bit more lemon juice or olive oil can help balance the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you prefer, you can use goat cheese, or omit cheese entirely for a dairy-free version.

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

This salad can last for about 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Just be aware that the vegetables may soften over time.

→ Can I use a different grain instead of couscous?

Absolutely! Quinoa or farro would both work well in this recipe.