Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Mediterranean Couscous Salad is a light, refreshing, and flavor-packed dish that comes together quickly and works as a main or side. Filled with tender couscous, crisp vegetables, tangy feta, briny olives, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, it’s perfect for picnics, meal prep, or healthy lunches. It’s vibrant, versatile, and full of Mediterranean flair.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

couscous (regular or pearl)boiling water or vegetable brotholive oillemon juicecherry tomatoes (halved)cucumber (diced)red onion (finely chopped)kalamata olives (sliced)feta cheese (crumbled)fresh parsleyfresh mint (optional)saltblack pepper

directions

Cook couscous according to package instructions using boiling water or broth. Fluff with a fork and let cool.

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

In a large bowl, combine cooled couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta.

Add chopped parsley and mint if using.

Drizzle with the lemon vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4–6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 5–10 minutes
Chilling time: 15–30 minutes (optional)
Total time: 20–40 minutes

Variations

Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for protein.
Use pearl couscous for a heartier texture.
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
Swap feta for goat cheese or omit for a dairy-free version.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
No reheating needed—best served cold or at room temperature.
Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it gets even better as it sits and the flavors meld.

Is couscous a grain or pasta?
Couscous is technically a pasta made from semolina flour.

Can I use quinoa instead?
Yes, cooked quinoa is a great gluten-free substitute.

Do I need to rinse couscous?
No rinsing is needed, just fluff with a fork after cooking.

How do I keep the vegetables crisp?
Add them just before serving if making well in advance.

Can I use bottled dressing?
Homemade dressing is best, but a quality lemon or Greek vinaigrette works.

What type of olives should I use?
Kalamata are classic, but green olives can work too.

How do I make it spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili to the dressing.

Can I serve it warm?
Yes, it’s delicious warm or cold—very flexible.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely, this salad scales up easily.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Couscous Salad is a colorful, nutritious, and delicious dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. With simple ingredients and bold flavor, it’s a go-to salad for potlucks, lunches, and light dinners that never fails to impress.

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