couscous salad

Couscous salad is a light, refreshing, and versatile dish that’s perfect as a side or even a main. It’s simple to make and can be customized with different veggies, herbs, and dressings. Here’s a basic recipe for a Mediterranean-style couscous salad:

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups couscous

• 1 ¾ cups boiling water or vegetable broth

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt, to taste

• For the Salad:

  • 1 cucumber, diced

  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped

  • 1 red bell pepper, diced

  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)

• For the Dressing:

  • 3 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Couscous:

   • In a large bowl, place the couscous. Pour the boiling water (or vegetable broth) over the couscous, add the olive oil and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.

   • Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let it sit for about 5 minutes, allowing the couscous to absorb the liquid.

   • After 5 minutes, fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.

2. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

3. Assemble the Salad:

   • Add the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, bell pepper, olives, parsley, and mint to the couscous. Toss gently to combine.

4. Dress the Salad:

   • Pour the dressing over the couscous mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

5. Chill and Serve:

   • For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

   • Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips:

• You can add other ingredients like feta cheese, chickpeas, or roasted vegetables for added protein and flavor.

• For a spicier version, you can add some red pepper flakes to the dressing.

• If you want more depth of flavor, you can use toasted couscous or make the couscous with a bit of saffron for color and fragrance.

This couscous salad is great for meal prep or picnics. Would you like any more variations or additional tips for this dish?