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 ½ cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; ½ red onion, finely chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; ¼ cup black olives, sliced; ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Taste of Continents

I absolutely love the fresh flavors and textures of this Mediterranean Couscous Salad. It’s a vibrant mix of colorful vegetables and hearty couscous, making it a perfect side dish or a light main course. What really elevates this salad for me is the tangy dressing made from lemon juice and olive oil, which brings everything together beautifully. I enjoy making it for summer gatherings, as it can easily be prepared in advance and served chilled. Trust me, this is a dish that always impresses!

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:13:35.778Z

When I first tried making a Mediterranean Couscous Salad, I wanted to capture the essence of a classic Mediterranean dish. I learned that using fresh herbs like parsley and mint really enhances the flavors. Their aromatic qualities add a layer of freshness that dried herbs simply can’t replicate. The process of cooking the couscous is straightforward; just boiling water and letting it sit covered for a few minutes yields a fluffy texture.

Another tip I picked up is to let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite refreshing and satisfying. I typically serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish, but it’s delightful on its own. This recipe truly captures the spirit of Mediterranean cuisine!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A refreshing burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Nutritious and filling, making it great for meal prep

Perfecting Your Couscous

Cooking couscous may seem straightforward, but there are a couple of key techniques to ensure perfect texture. I recommend using vegetable broth rather than water to infuse the couscous with an additional layer of flavor. It's also essential not to overcook it; the couscous should be light and fluffy, not gummy. Once you’ve fluffed it with a fork, let it cool before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent wilting the fresh vegetables.

If you find yourself with leftover couscous, don’t worry; it can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. Just make sure it’s completely cool before storing. Reheat it gently in the microwave or add a splash of broth to restore moisture without cooking it further. This allows you to enjoy multiple servings throughout the week.

Fresh Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

Selecting the freshest vegetables elevates the salad immensely. Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes with a firm texture and vibrant color, as they will add a sweet burst to each bite. I also suggest using a crisp, seedless cucumber for crunch; this will provide a refreshing contrast to the other ingredients. Don't skimp on the fresh herbs—parsley and mint not only brighten the flavor but also add aromatic qualities that enhance the overall experience.

For those looking to modify the recipe, feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even roasted eggplant can work wonderfully. You could also replace the feta cheese with a dairy-free alternative or omit it entirely for a vegan salad. This flexibility makes it easy to enjoy regardless of dietary restrictions!

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

1 cup couscous
1 ½ cups vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
½ red onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
¼ cup black olives, sliced
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Couscous

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the couscous and stir. Remove from heat, cover, and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the couscous is cooking, prepare the vegetables. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, black olives, feta cheese, parsley, and mint.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine Everything

Add the fluffed couscous to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over the top. Gently toss to combine all ingredients.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your refreshing Mediterranean Couscous Salad!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider mixing in chickpeas or grilled chicken. You can also customize the salad with seasonal vegetables or other favorite ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Mediterranean Couscous Salad as a sharp contrast to grilled meats or fish, adding a refreshing element to the meal. If you plan to bring this salad to a potluck, consider mixing in some chickpeas for added protein, making it a stand-alone dish. The salad is also fantastic as a filling for pita pockets, accompanied by a dollop of hummus for extra flavor.

If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving it alongside tzatziki sauce or a lemony yogurt dressing for an extra creaminess. This can really round out the meal and complement the Mediterranean theme beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of my favorite aspects of this Mediterranean Couscous Salad is how well it stores. If you're making it ahead of time, assemble all your ingredients except for the dressing and keep them separate in the fridge for up to two days. This prevents the vegetables from becoming soggy and helps maintain that fresh crunch when you're ready to serve.

Once you've dressed the salad, it’s best enjoyed within 24 hours to ensure all ingredients remain vibrant. If you do have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container; just expect that the flavors may intensify as they meld together, creating an even bolder taste!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes! In fact, it's best to let it chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. It can be prepared up to a day in advance.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Roasted veggies also work great!

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan alternative!

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh.