Why Make This Recipe
Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Feta is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick to make, healthy, and full of color and flavor. The combination of fresh vegetables, salty feta cheese, and tangy olives creates a delightful medley that is sure to please everyone. This salad can be a main course, a side dish, or a light lunch. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and great for meal prepping.
How to Make Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Feta
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 Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 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
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine couscous and boiling water. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes until the water is absorbed. Fluff couscous with a fork.
- Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley to the couscous.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Feta
This salad can be served as a standalone dish, especially on warm days. It’s great for picnics or potlucks. You can also pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. For added flavor, consider garnishing with extra parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest.
How to Store Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Feta
To store this salad, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last up to 3 days in the fridge. If you are making it ahead of time, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to maintain the best texture.
Tips to Make Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Feta
- To prevent the couscous from sticking, make sure to fluff it well with a fork after it absorbs the water.
- For more flavor, let the salad sit for about 30 minutes after mixing the dressing.
- You can add other ingredients like bell peppers, artichokes, or even chickpeas to give the salad more variety.
Variation
You can easily customize this salad to your taste. Try using quinoa instead of couscous for a gluten-free option. You can also swap out the feta for goat cheese or omit it for a dairy-free version.
FAQs
Q: Can I use different types of olives?
A: Yes, you can use different olives, such as green olives, if you prefer.
Q: Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge and can be made ahead of time for easy meals.
Q: Can I add protein to this salad?
A: Yes, adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can make this salad more filling and nutritious.
Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Feta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine couscous and boiling water. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes until the water is absorbed. Fluff couscous with a fork.
- Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley to the couscous.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.