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; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup black olives, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Natural Collection

I absolutely love making Mediterranean Couscous Salad because it’s not only vibrant and fresh, but it’s also incredibly versatile. It’s a dish I often prepare for summer gatherings or whenever I crave the flavors of the Mediterranean. The combination of fluffy couscous, colorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful experience for the palate. Plus, it can be served warm or cold, making it perfect for any occasion. Join me in discovering a recipe that’s as tasty as it is easy to whip up!

Created by

Briony Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:41:36.117Z

When I first tried making Mediterranean Couscous Salad, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how packed with flavor it was! I experimented with various ingredients and discovered that fresh herbs like parsley and mint made all the difference. Adding lemon juice not only brightened the flavors but also provided a refreshing twist that balances the richness.

What I find most rewarding is crafting a salad that looks as delicious as it tastes. The contrast between the fluffy couscous and the crunchy vegetables creates a textural delight. Don’t be afraid to customize it with your favorite add-ins, such as feta or chickpeas, to make it truly your own!

        Why You'll Love This Mediterranean Couscous Salad
        Colorful and fresh ingredients that brighten any dish
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight meals
Versatile with endless customization options

      

The Magic of Couscous

Couscous is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, known for its light and fluffy texture. It absorbs flavors well, making it an excellent base for salads. When cooked with vegetable broth, it becomes infused with a savory taste that elevates the dish significantly. I recommend using low-sodium broth to control the salt level, especially since we're adding feta and olives later, which are naturally salty. A light fluff with a fork after cooking helps create the ideal texture, allowing each grain to maintain its individual shape.

Another tip is to let the couscous cool completely before mixing it with the vegetables. This step prevents the vegetables from wilting and allows for a more refreshing salad. If you're in a hurry, you can spread the fluffed couscous on a baking sheet to cool it down quickly, which is especially useful during summer gatherings.

Freshness is Key

The vibrant colors of the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs not only make the salad visually appealing but also enhance its flavor profile. Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness; they're often juicier than larger varieties, providing a nice contrast to the creaminess of the feta. When choosing cucumbers, English cucumbers are ideal as they are less bitter and have fewer seeds. You can also add bell peppers or radishes for an extra crunch, just remember to keep the sizes uniform for even flavor distribution.

Herbs like parsley and mint are integral to this Mediterranean salad, infusing it with freshness and aroma. If you can’t find fresh herbs, consider using dried, but reduce the quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. Adding these elements just before serving keeps their vibrant qualities intact, ensuring the salad remains light and refreshing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious 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
1/4 cup black olives, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all these ingredients for a vibrant salad that's full of flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Mediterranean Couscous Salad:

Cook the Couscous

In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat, stir in the couscous, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the couscous is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooled couscous to the bowl with the vegetables. Gently mix in the feta cheese, parsley, mint, lemon juice, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for an hour before serving to let the flavors meld. Enjoy your Mediterranean Couscous Salad!

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. You can also swap out vegetables based on your preferences or seasonal availability.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great features of this Mediterranean Couscous Salad is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the couscous and chop your vegetables a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers and combine only when you’re ready to serve. This helps maintain the texture of the ingredients and keeps the salad fresh. If you want to enhance the flavors even more, consider marinating the vegetables in a bit of olive oil and lemon juice overnight before mixing them into the couscous.

In terms of storage, this salad keeps well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If the salad seems dry on the second or third day, simply drizzle a little olive oil and lemon juice over it to refresh the flavors. Just be cautious of the feta and olives, as they may make the salad saltier over time. Taste and adjust accordingly!

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Couscous Salad can stand alone as a light meal or serve as a flavorful side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or kebabs. For a more filling entree, consider adding roasted veggies or chickpeas to the mix for added protein and texture. You can also serve this salad on a bed of greens for an extra crunch and nutrition boost.

If you’re feeling creative, feel free to adjust the ratios of the ingredients based on your personal tastes. You can introduce ingredients like artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes to play with the flavors further. The beauty of this salad is its adaptability, making it a perfect dish for using up whatever fresh produce you have on hand!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a day in advance, just make sure to store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for couscous?

You can use quinoa or bulgur as a gluten-free alternative.

→ Is it possible to add more protein?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great additions to boost protein.

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your taste or what you have on hand.