Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Name: Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 1/4 cups boiling water; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Taste Kitchen

I love making Mediterranean Couscous Salad because it’s a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of fluffy couscous, colorful vegetables, and zesty dressing not only appeals to the palate but also to the eyes. This salad is versatile; I often serve it as a side at barbecues or as a light lunch during the warmer months. It’s so easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time for those busy days. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it regularly!

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:49:36.027Z

When I first put together this Mediterranean Couscous Salad, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a delicious and filling dish. The flavor from the feta cheese mixed with the crunch of cucumbers and the vitality of fresh herbs elevates the couscous to a whole new level. I used whole grain couscous for a health boost, and it gives the salad an even nuttier flavor.

What I love most about this salad is how customizable it is. The base can stay the same, but you can easily add or replace vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. I usually experiment with adding roasted red peppers or even chickpeas for extra protein. This way, every time I make it, it feels like a new creation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Colorful and nutritious, packed with fresh vegetables
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients
Perfect as a side dish or a light main course

Understanding Couscous

Couscous is the star ingredient in this Mediterranean salad, providing a fluffy texture that absorbs flavors beautifully. It's a pasta-like grain made from semolina wheat, and it cooks quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. When preparing it, be sure to use boiling water to achieve the right texture; the hot water helps each grain swell properly, ensuring they're tender but not mushy.

If you’d like a nuttier flavor, consider toasting the couscous in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before adding the boiling water. This simple step brings out a rich depth of flavor and encourages a pleasant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the crisp vegetables in the salad.

Vegetable Variations

This salad is easily customizable depending on what vegetables are in season or what you have available. Bell peppers, fresh spinach, or even artichoke hearts are excellent additions to enhance color and nutrition. Just ensure any added vegetables are roughly chopped to maintain a uniform size for even flavor distribution.

If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a few diced jalapeños or finely chopped olives to the mix. Not only do these ingredients enhance the flavor profile, but they also keep the dish exciting every time you make it. Additionally, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative to cater to dietary preferences.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of Mediterranean Couscous Salad is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the salad a day in advance and let the flavors meld together in the refrigerator. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.

If you plan to store leftovers, add a splash of extra olive oil or lemon juice before refrigerating to prevent the couscous from drying out. The salad can last in the fridge for 3-4 days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start for a smooth cooking experience!

Ingredients

1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups boiling water
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Chill your salad for a bit before serving for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Mediterranean Couscous Salad.

Prepare the Couscous

In a medium bowl, add the couscous and pour in the boiling water. Cover it and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.

Mix the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.

Add Dressing and Cheese

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the vegetable mixture. Add the fluffed couscous and crumbled feta cheese. Toss everything gently to combine.

Taste and Adjust

Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more lemon juice or salt for extra flavor.

Serve and Enjoy

Chill the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy your fresh Mediterranean Couscous Salad!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein, or include olives for an extra Mediterranean twist!

Perfect Pairings

This Mediterranean Couscous Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish, as the refreshing flavors complement the savory proteins beautifully. It also goes incredibly well with roasted vegetables for a fully vegetarian spread, making it a versatile dish for any gathering.

For a complete meal, consider adding some chickpeas or grilled shrimp to the salad to boost protein content. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also makes the dish more filling.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your couscous clumping together, it may be because it was not fluffed properly after absorbing the water. Ensure you use a fork to fluff it gently, which helps separate the grains and incorporates air for a lighter texture. If you accidentally added too much water, you can cover the bowl and let it sit for a few extra minutes, allowing it to absorb fully.

For adjusting flavor, always taste before serving. If the salad feels bland, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or an extra drizzle of olive oil can make a world of difference. Remember, the goal is to create a balanced flavor profile that brings out the freshness of the vegetables and the saltiness of the feta.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or even artichoke hearts work well!

→ Is it gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free couscous or substitute with quinoa for a gluten-free option.

→ How long does it last in the fridge?

It will keep well for up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container.