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 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cultural Kitchen Creations

I love making this Mediterranean Couscous Salad, especially during warm summer days. It combines fluffy couscous with vibrant vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing that brings every ingredient to life. The beauty of this dish lies in its freshness and the balance of flavors, which makes it an ideal side or a light meal on its own. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for picnics, gatherings, or just a cozy dinner at home.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:17:35.909Z

Every time I make this salad, I’m reminded of my travels through the Mediterranean. The fresh flavors and colorful ingredients take me back to sun-soaked markets, where vibrant produce and aromatic herbs are in abundance. I found that allowing the couscous to soak in the dressing for a few minutes before serving really enhances the overall taste, making it even more delicious.

This salad is not only quick to prepare, but it’s also incredibly versatile. I often switch up the vegetables based on what I have on hand, whether it’s bell peppers, cucumbers, or even olives. It’s a fantastic way to clean out the fridge while enjoying a healthy and satisfying meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A rainbow of fresh vegetables brings life to your plate
Light yet filling, perfect for any occasion
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients

Couscous Cooking Tips

Cooking couscous may seem straightforward, but achieving the perfect texture can be tricky. For best results, ensure that the vegetable broth is truly boiling before adding the couscous. After stirring it in and covering the pot, resist the temptation to lift the lid during the resting period; this can cause steam to escape, leading to undercooked grains. The couscous should absorb all the liquid and become fluffy without being sticky.

Should you find yourself without vegetable broth, water can be used as a substitute, although the flavor will be less pronounced. To enhance the taste, consider adding a pinch of salt, a bay leaf, or even a splash of your favorite liquid seasoning to the water while it cooks.

Customizing Your Salad

The beauty of this Mediterranean Couscous Salad lies in its adaptability. If you’re not a fan of feta cheese, try substituting with goat cheese or even a plant-based cheese to keep the dish vegan-friendly. Additionally, this salad is an excellent canvas for your favorite ingredients—think black olives, diced avocado, or even roasted vegetables from last night's dinner.

Feel free to experiment with herbs beyond parsley. Fresh basil or mint can elevate the dish and add a unique flavor profile. Adding ingredients like chickpeas or quinoa can also increase the protein content, making it a heartier meal. The key is to maintain a balance of flavors and textures while incorporating what you enjoy.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This salad shines when served fresh but can also be stored for up to three days in the refrigerator. To keep it from becoming soggy, consider storing the dressing separately and dressing the salad just before serving. If you need to make it ahead of time for an event, prepare the salad ingredients and dressing separately, combining them at your departure time or just before your gathering.

For serving, this Mediterranean Couscous Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as chicken or shrimp, enhancing your barbecue spread. Alternatively, serve it as a satisfying light lunch on its own or as part of a mezze platter with hummus, pita bread, and olives for a delightful Mediterranean experience.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a vibrant and tasty salad.

For the Salad

1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to create a fresh and delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your salad irresistible.

Prepare the Couscous

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

Mix the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Enjoy your refreshing Mediterranean Couscous Salad!

Pro Tips

You can add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. For a vegan option, simply skip the feta cheese.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your couscous turns out clumpy, it might be due to insufficient fluffing after cooking or not letting it rest long enough. Ensure you fluff it gently with a fork after it absorbs all the liquid. If you experience any risk of overcooking, checking the couscous at the five-minute mark can prevent any mishaps. You want it to be tender but not mushy, so keep an eye on it during the waiting period.

For overly salty salad, adding more chopped veggies like cucumber or an extra handful of couscous can help balance the flavors. If adjusting doesn’t work, consider drizzling in a little extra lemon juice to brighten the overall taste.

Serving Variations

To elevate the presentation, serve the Mediterranean Couscous Salad on a bed of fresh greens like arugula or spinach. The earthy tones will contrast beautifully with the vibrant colors of the salad, making it a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate. Additionally, placing a dollop of tzatziki on top can add a cooling element to the dish, complementing the salad's zest.

For a heartier option, mix in grilled chicken or salmon, making the salad more of a main course. Adding nuts like pine nuts or walnuts can enhance the salad's texture and nutritional value, giving a pleasant crunch to every bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the dressing right before serving for the best flavor.

→ What can I substitute for couscous?

You can use quinoa, bulgur, or even rice as alternatives to couscous.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free couscous or quinoa.

→ How long will leftovers last?

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