Name: Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup water; ¼ teaspoon salt or to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup uncooked Moroccan couscous (pearl couscous is fine as a substitute); ½ tablespoon butter; ½ cup olive oil; 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest; 4-6 tablespoons lemon juice (start with 4 tbsp, add more to taste); 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar OR white wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon runny honey; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; ½ teaspoon garlic powder or more to taste; ½ teaspoon dried oregano or more to taste (or use your favorite fresh or dried herb); Salt & pepper to taste; 1 pint Roma cherry tomatoes, halved (about ½ inch); 2 small-medium cucumbers, finely diced (about ¼ inch); 1 large yellow bell pepper, finely diced (about ¼ inch); 1 small-medium red onion, finely chopped (about ⅛ inch); 1 (15-oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; ½ cup pitted kalamata olives, roughly chopped (or your preferred olive type); ½ cup chopped fresh herbs (oregano, parsley, and mint recommended); ½ cup crumbled Feta cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 6 reviews

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If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and a delightful Mediterranean flair, then this Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe is just what you need. It’s an easy-to-make, refreshing salad that perfectly balances fluffy couscous with crisp vegetables, briny olives, and creamy Feta cheese—all tossed in a zesty, homemade vinaigrette. Whether you’re planning a summer picnic, a light lunch, or a side for your BBQ feast, this recipe never fails to impress and satisfy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with colorful ingredients layered side by side: bright red cherry tomatoes at the front, white crumbled cheese next to them, diced purple onions, dark purple olives, yellow couscous, and small tan chickpeas. A woman's hand is pouring a yellow dressing over the top, the dressing looking smooth and slightly thick. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with all colors of the ingredients clearly visible and vibrant. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the heart of any great salad. Each component in this Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe plays a unique role; from the buttery couscous base to the bright, tangy dressing and the crisp, colorful veggies, every bite is packed with texture and flavor.

1 cup water: To perfectly fluff the couscous and give it the ideal texture.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the couscous and balance.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds silkiness to the couscous and a touch of richness.
1 cup Moroccan couscous: The star grain that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
½ tablespoon butter: Stirred in to add a subtle creamy note to the couscous.
½ cup olive oil (for dressing): Provides body and a healthy, fruity base to the vinaigrette.
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest: Brings a fresh citrus aroma that brightens the salad.
4-6 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds the perfect tangy punch to the dressing.
1 tablespoon red or white wine vinegar: Balances acidity and deepens flavor complexity.
1 tablespoon runny honey: A touch of natural sweetness to mellow the tartness.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing a subtle sharpness and helps emulsify it.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle, savory kick.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: Or your favorite herb; provides classic Mediterranean earthiness.
Salt & pepper to taste: Essential finishing touches to season just right.
1 pint Roma cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy, sweet bursts of color and flavor.
2 small-medium cucumbers, diced: Cool and crisp bites for refreshing crunch.
1 large yellow bell pepper, diced: Adds sweetness and a vibrant pop of sunshine yellow.
1 small-medium red onion, finely chopped: Sharpness that contrasts beautifully with the tender couscous.
1 (15-oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed: Protein-packed and nutty for heartiness.
½ cup pitted kalamata olives, roughly chopped: Salty and briny notes that tie all the flavors together.
½ cup chopped fresh herbs: Oregano, parsley, and mint bring freshness and aromatic lifts.
½ cup crumbled Feta cheese: Creamy, tangy, and the ultimate finishing touch.

How to Make Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Couscous

Start by bringing water, olive oil, and salt to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan. As soon as it’s bubbling, stir in the couscous, cover the pan, and turn off the heat. Let it sit stationary for 5 minutes so the couscous absorbs all the liquid and becomes perfectly tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the couscous is resting, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a measuring jug or bowl. This dressing is the magic that ties the salad together—it’s tangy, sweet, and herbal all at once.

Step 3: Fluff the Couscous

After 5 minutes, remove the lid, stir in the butter, and fluff the couscous with a fork. This fluffy texture is crucial to creating the light, airy base that carries the dressing and ingredients beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the couscous with the cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, yellow peppers, red onion, chickpeas, kalamata olives, and chopped herbs. Pour the dressing evenly over the salad and gently toss everything to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.

How to Serve Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe

The image shows a clear bowl filled with a colorful couscous salad placed on a white marbled surface. The salad has three main visible layers: the base is made of small, yellow couscous grains, mixed evenly with chopped fresh green herbs. Scattered throughout the couscous are pieces of halved bright red cherry tomatoes, small black olives, and diced yellow bell peppers. There are also bits of crumbled white cheese spread over the top, adding a crumbly texture. A woman's hand is holding a light wooden spoon, slightly stirring the salad. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch of elegance and taste, sprinkle additional crumbled Feta, fresh mint leaves, or a few whole olives over the top. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving also adds a silky finish that makes the salad shine.

Side Dishes

This Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. It’s also superb alongside pita bread and hummus for a vegetarian spread that will impress any guest.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the salad in hollowed-out bell pepper halves or small bowls made from endive leaves for a lovely appetizer or party platter. You can also layer it into mason jars for on-the-go lunches or picnic-friendly servings that look as good as they taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This salad stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. The flavors meld over time, making the dish even more vibrant the next day. Just give it a quick toss before serving.

Freezing

Since this salad contains fresh vegetables and Feta, freezing is not recommended as it will affect the texture and freshness of the ingredients.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature to retain its crispness and bright flavors. If preferred, allow it to sit out for 15 minutes after refrigeration for optimal taste.

FAQs

Can I use pearl couscous instead of Moroccan couscous?

Absolutely! Pearl couscous works perfectly in this recipe, offering a slightly chewier texture that some people love. Just cook it according to package directions.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

To make this Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe vegan, simply omit the butter and Feta cheese, or substitute with a plant-based feta alternative. The dressing and vegetables are naturally vegan-friendly.

How long does it take to prepare this salad?

The entire process from start to finish takes about 30 minutes, making it a quick and impressive dish to whip up for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

Can I substitute the fresh herbs?

Definitely! Feel free to use any herbs you love such as basil, cilantro, or dill to customize the flavor to your liking. Fresh herbs add so much personality to this salad.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Because of the fresh vegetables and dressing, consuming it the same day or next day is ideal for the best taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a little sunshine and zest to your meal planning, try this Mediterranean Couscous Salad Recipe. It’s easy, fresh, and full of bold flavors that’ll have you coming back for seconds. Whether as a side or a main, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect anytime you want something light yet satisfying.

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