This Mediterranean Couscous Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines fluffy couscous with vibrant vegetables, aromatic herbs, and zesty lemon dressing. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or potluck favorite, it’s packed with fresh ingredients and bold spices for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 250g couscous
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Boiling water (enough to cover the couscous)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 small red onions, finely chopped
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 3 Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1 large bunch parsley (about two handfuls), finely chopped
- 1 bunch mint (about one handful), finely chopped
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- Olive oil, to taste
- Additional salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
Prepare the Couscous:
- Place 250g of couscous in a large bowl.
- Add 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon salt.
- Season with pepper to taste.
- Pour enough boiling water over the couscous to cover it completely.
- Cover the bowl with a lid or plate and let it sit for about 10 minutes, or until the couscous has absorbed all the water.
Fluff the Couscous:
6. After the couscous has absorbed the water, use a fork to fluff it up, breaking apart any clumps.
Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs:
7. Finely chop 2 small red onions.
8. Dice 1 large cucumber and 3 Roma tomatoes.
9. Finely chop a large bunch of parsley (about two handfuls) and a bunch of mint (about one handful).
Combine the Ingredients:
10. Add the chopped red onions, diced cucumber, diced tomatoes, parsley, and mint to the fluffed couscous.
11. Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste.
12. Squeeze the juice of 1 large lemon over the mixture.
13. Drizzle with olive oil to taste.
14. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
15. Mix everything well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Rest and Serve:
16. Let the salad rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
17. Serve the Mediterranean Couscous Salad chilled or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb for a hearty meal.
- Serve as a light lunch alongside pita bread and hummus.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs won’t provide the same freshness.
- Adjust the amount of olive oil and lemon juice to taste for your preferred level of tanginess.
- For added texture, sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Couscous: Provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy.
- Vegetables and Herbs: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Lemon Juice and Olive Oil: Add healthy fats and a boost of vitamin C.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
- Dairy-free and nut-free.
- Contains gluten (use gluten-free couscous if needed).
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Stir well before serving to redistribute the dressing.
- Not recommended for freezing as the fresh vegetables may lose texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal cooking required.
- Packed with fresh flavors and healthy ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prep or as a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings.
- Versatile and adaptable with optional add-ins like olives or cheese.
Conclusion:
This Mediterranean Couscous Salad is a bright and refreshing dish that brings together the best of bold spices, fresh herbs, and crunchy vegetables. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that can be served on its own or as a complement to any meal. Make it ahead of time and enjoy the flavors as they deepen with every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use pearl couscous instead of regular couscous?
Yes, pearl couscous works well, but you’ll need to cook it according to package instructions. - Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp for a protein boost. - What can I substitute for parsley?
Cilantro or arugula can be used as substitutes, though they’ll alter the flavor slightly. - How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container. - Can I make this salad gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free couscous or substitute with quinoa. - What other vegetables can I add?
Try bell peppers, zucchini, or avocado for variety. - Can I skip the tomato paste?
Yes, but the tomato paste adds a depth of flavor that enhances the dish. - How do I make the salad less tangy?
Reduce the amount of lemon juice and balance it with a pinch of sugar. - Can I serve this warm?
Yes, this salad is delicious warm, room temperature, or chilled. - What can I pair this salad with?
Serve with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a side to soups and stews.