How to Make the Perfect Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Mediterranean · Easy · 15 min · 4 servings
This vibrant Mediterranean couscous salad uses the quick steam method to have fluffy couscous ready in just 5 minutes and the whole dish on the table in 15. Loaded with cucumber, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta, it is a bright and satisfying meal that tastes like summer.
Why this recipe works
This Mediterranean Couscous Salad recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 15 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 340 calories with 11g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 cups instant couscous
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 medium cucumber diced
- 0.5 cup kalamata olives halved
- 0.5 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tablespoons lemon herb vinaigrette
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Steam the Couscous
Pour 1.5 cups of boiling water or hot vegetable broth over couscous in a large bowl. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a plate and let steam for exactly 5 minutes.
Step 2: Fluff and Cool
Uncover couscous and fluff thoroughly with a fork breaking up any clumps. Spread slightly and allow to cool for 2 to 3 minutes before adding fresh ingredients.
Step 3: Prep Vegetables
Halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber into small cubes, and halve kalamata olives while the couscous cools. Combine in a bowl.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Add all vegetables and feta cheese to the cooled couscous. Drizzle with lemon herb vinaigrette and toss gently to combine without breaking up the feta too much.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- kalamata olives → green castelvetrano olives for a milder buttery flavor
- feta cheese → vegan feta or omit entirely for a dairy-free version
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Adding vegetables to hot couscous immediately which causes them to wilt and lose their crunch
- Not fully covering the couscous while steaming which results in uneven dry clumps
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 340 calories, 11g protein, 48g carbs, 12g fat, 5g fiber.
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