Mediterranean Couscous Salad
User Reviews
5
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Description
The Mediterranean Couscous Salad highlights couscous steamed in butter and water, cooled before mixing with fresh vegetables and feta cheese. The dressing adds acidity and a touch of sweetness, blending olive oil's richness with the brightness of lemon and red wine vinegar, balanced by honey and garlic. The fresh vegetables provide crunch and freshness, while the crumbled feta adds creaminess and saltiness to the bite.
This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature alongside grilled meats or as a stand-alone vegetarian dish. It works well as a potluck contribution or a simple lunch option for warm days.
You can vary this recipe by substituting quinoa or rice for couscous or enhancing it with leafy greens like spinach or kale. Using a mild olive oil prevents bitterness in the dressing, and adding lemon zest boosts the citrus aroma.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup couscous
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ¾ cup water
- 1 cup tomato diced, fresh
- 1 cup cucumber sliced
- 1 red bell pepper chopped
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup feta cheese crumbled
- ⅓ cup flat leaf parsley chopped
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice fresh
- 1 ½ teaspoons honey
- 1 clove garlic minced
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring water, butter and a pinch of salt to a boil. Add couscous, stir and cover. Remove from heat and let sit 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, place all dressing ingredients in a jar and shake well to combine.
- Place couscous in a large bowl and fluff with a fork. Allow to cool completely.
- Add remaining salad ingredients and dressing. Toss to combine and serve.
Notes
- To vary the grain, substitute cooked quinoa or rice instead of couscous.
- Include fresh or roasted vegetables such as spinach or kale to add more texture.
- Add lemon zest to the dressing for an additional citrus flavor boost.
- Choose a light-tasting olive oil for the dressing to avoid bitterness; vegetable, grapeseed, or canola oils may be used as alternatives.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 340 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 340 | 17% |
| Carbohydrates | 33g | 11% |
| Protein | 7g | 14% |
| Fat | 20g | 31% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Cholesterol | 19mg | 6% |
| Sodium | 178mg | 7% |
| Potassium | 292mg | 6% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 6g | 12% |
| Vitamin A | 1827IU | 37% |
| Vitamin C | 52mg | 58% |
| Calcium | 85mg | 9% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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