Zesty Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Name: Zesty Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavor Recipes

I love making this Zesty Mediterranean Couscous Salad because it’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The fluffy couscous pairs wonderfully with the crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and a zingy dressing that elevates the dish. In just about 30 minutes, I can whip up a vibrant and healthy meal that delights my taste buds and impresses my guests. It’s versatile, too; I often serve it as a side dish or a light main course, and it’s a fantastic option for meal prep.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-13T11:51:31.375Z

When I first tried making a couscous salad, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how refreshing it tasted. I played around with different ingredients, and this Zesty Mediterranean Couscous Salad emerged as a winner. The key is to let the couscous absorb the lemon juice and olive oil, which infuse it with flavor right from the start, making each bite a burst of freshness.

One day, I decided to add some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor, and it instantly became a staple in my meal rotation. The combination of olives, cucumbers, and feta cheese truly makes this dish stand out. It's perfect for summer gatherings or light lunches, and it pairs beautifully with grilled meats.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright, zesty flavors that awaken your palate
Fresh, crunchy vegetables that add a delightful texture
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding Couscous

Couscous is a versatile grain that serves as a wonderful base for this salad. When cooked properly, it should be fluffy and have a light, almost airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy vegetables. To achieve this, it's crucial to let the couscous sit covered for the full five minutes after adding it to the boiling vegetable broth. This method ensures that it absorbs the liquid entirely without becoming mushy.

For those looking to substitute couscous, quinoa can be an excellent alternative, providing a similar fluffy texture while adding a nutty flavor. Prepare quinoa in the same way, using a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio, boiling, covering, and letting it steam for about 15 minutes.

The Importance of Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs like parsley and mint elevate the flavor profile of this salad, adding brightness and complexity. They not only contribute aromatic qualities but also a vibrant color that makes the dish visually appealing. Be generous with the herbs, as they can make or break the freshness of your salad. If you can't find fresh herbs, dried herbs can work in a pinch but use them sparingly — about one-third of the amount called for fresh, as they are more concentrated.

In addition to parsley and mint, you might consider experimenting with other herbs like basil or dill, depending on your flavor preferences. These alternatives can provide different aromatic notes that change the character of the salad.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the greatest benefits of this Mediterranean Couscous Salad is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance without compromising its quality. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing its zesty profile.

If you're meal prepping, consider keeping the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy. The salad can last in the fridge for up to three days, but be aware that the texture of the vegetables may soften with time. For best results, consume it within the first two days.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Zesty Mediterranean Couscous Salad.

Salad Ingredients

1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

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

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before assembling your salad for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Zesty Mediterranean Couscous Salad.

Prepare the Couscous

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

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooled couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, parsley, and mint. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Serve

Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Enjoy your refreshing Zesty Mediterranean Couscous Salad with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For added protein, you can mix in chickpeas or grilled chicken. Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what's in season or your personal preferences.

Serving Suggestions

This Zesty Mediterranean Couscous Salad can serve as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal rich in protein. For a vegetarian option, consider adding chickpeas or roasted vegetables, which will provide additional texture and flavor while making the dish more filling.

Serving it with a dollop of tzatziki sauce or a sprinkling of toasted pine nuts can also take this salad to the next level. If you're entertaining, consider serving it on a large platter for a beautiful presentation, garnished with extra herbs and feta.

Variations to Explore

Don’t hesitate to customize this salad based on what you have on hand. For instance, swap out cherry tomatoes for roasted red peppers or use kale instead of cucumbers for a different crunchy texture. These substitutions can adapt the dish to suit seasonal ingredients or your taste preferences.

If you're looking for added protein, diced grilled shrimp or crumbled hard-boiled eggs can also complement this salad beautifully. Additionally, feel free to vary the cheeses; goat cheese can offer a tangy alternative to feta, giving the salad a unique twist.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your couscous ends up clumping together, it may not have been fluffed sufficiently after cooking. To remedy this, add a small drizzle of olive oil and mix gently with a fork. This should separate the grains and restore that desired fluffy texture.

Another issue might arise from overly acidic dressing. If you find the flavors too tangy after incorporating the dressing, try adding a touch of honey or maple syrup to balance out the acidity, ensuring a well-rounded flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is couscous gluten-free?

Traditional couscous is made from wheat; however, you can use gluten-free alternatives like quinoa or rice couscous.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you're not a fan of feta, you can use goat cheese or omit it altogether for a dairy-free option.

→ How can I add more flavor to the dressing?

Consider adding herbs like oregano or dill to the dressing for an extra flavor boost.