Description
A vibrant and refreshing Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Salad featuring tender pearl couscous combined with crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, tangy feta cheese, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon-oregano dressing. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or make-ahead meal for Mediterranean-inspired dining.
Ingredients
Couscous and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 cups pearl couscous
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Couscous: Bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the pearl couscous, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook according to package directions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until tender. Drain if necessary and transfer to a large bowl to cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a bright and flavorful dressing.
- Combine the Salad: To the cooled couscous, add the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, finely diced red onion, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, and chopped fresh mint. Pour the dressing over all ingredients.
- Toss and Chill: Gently toss the salad until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- For added protein, stir in chickpeas or grilled chicken.
- This salad can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Roasted red peppers can be added for additional Mediterranean flavor and color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Lunch, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
