Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Mediterranean Couscous Salad is a delightful dish that combines the vibrant flavors of grilled vegetables with the fluffy texture of pearl couscous. This salad is perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or weeknight dinners. Its creamy basil lemon feta dressing adds a unique twist, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Fresh: The blend of grilled veggies and tangy dressing creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have this salad ready in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or a light main course, this Mediterranean couscous salad suits various meals.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious addition to your diet.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make preparing your Mediterranean couscous salad easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Large mixing bowl
• Grill or grill pan
• Small food processor
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking the couscous evenly without sticking.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides that smoky flavor and beautiful char on the vegetables.
• Small food processor: Perfect for blending the dressing smoothly.

Ingredients

Mostly grilled veggies, this Mediterranean couscous salad is tossed in a creamy basil lemon feta dressing.

For the Salad

• 1 cup pearl couscous
• 1 zucchini (cut into long slices)
• 1 yellow squash (cut into long slices)
• 1 red bell pepper (cut into long slices, removing the stem and seeds)
• 1 Poblano pepper (cut into long slices, removing the stem and seeds)
• 1 small red onion (peeled and cut into large wedges keeping the core intact)
• 8 ounces mushrooms

For the Dressing

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• ¼ cup basil leaves (packed and roughly chopped)
• Olive oil spray
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Step 1: Cook the Couscous

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 ½ cups of water and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Bring to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the couscous. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 12 minutes. Turn off heat, vent lid, and let sit while you prep the rest of the salad.

Step 2: Prepare Vegetables

Add the cut veggies to a large mixing bowl. Spray generously with olive oil spray. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Toss to combine.

Step 3: Grill the Vegetables

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Transfer veggies to the grill in an even layer. Cook, flipping occasionally until soft and nicely charred, about 10 minutes. Remove from grill and let cool until manageable.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small food processor, add olive oil, lemon juice, dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, feta cheese, basil leaves, and 1 tablespoon of water. Season with ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Blend until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once veggies are cool enough to handle, cut them into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, add grilled veggies along with cooked couscous and dressing. Toss everything together until well combined. Best served warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Couscous Salad!

How to Serve Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Mediterranean couscous salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are looking for a light lunch or a complement to your dinner, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Light Lunch: Enjoy the salad as a standalone meal for lunch. Its hearty ingredients make it satisfying.
• Picnic Favorite: Pack it up for a picnic. The flavors develop even more when allowed to sit, making it ideal for outdoor dining.

With Grilled Proteins

• Grilled Chicken: Pair the salad with grilled chicken breast for added protein and flavor.
• Shrimp Skewers: Serve alongside shrimp skewers marinated in lemon and garlic for a refreshing touch.

Accompanying Appetizers

• Hummus and Pita: Offer hummus with warm pita bread as an appetizer before the salad.
• Stuffed Grape Leaves: Serve stuffed grape leaves as a Mediterranean starter that complements the salad perfectly.

How to Perfect Mediterranean Couscous Salad

To make your Mediterranean couscous salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips that will elevate its flavor and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs. They provide vibrant flavors and textures.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning after combining everything. Sometimes an extra pinch of salt or pepper can make all the difference.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for added crunch.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Serve with Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before eating brightens up all the flavors.
• Experiment with Dressings: While the creamy basil lemon feta dressing is delicious, don’t hesitate to try other dressings like balsamic vinaigrette.

Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Mediterranean couscous salad pairs well with numerous side dishes that can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal grilled veggies adds smokiness and complements the salad’s freshness.
2. Tzatziki Sauce: This cool yogurt sauce provides a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the couscous salad.
3. Panzanella Bread Salad: A traditional Italian bread salad made with ripe tomatoes and basil offers a rustic touch.
4. Olives Platter: An assortment of olives enhances the Mediterranean theme while providing salty bites.
5. Feta-Stuffed Peppers: Sweet bell peppers filled with feta cheese make for a tasty appetizer or side dish.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs create a hearty addition that balances lighter elements of the meal.
7. Chickpea Salad: A simple chickpea salad with cucumber and parsley adds protein while keeping things light and refreshing.
8. Greek Yogurt Dip: A tangy yogurt dip served with raw veggies makes an easy yet delicious side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mediterranean couscous salad, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the soaking step: Not letting the couscous rest after cooking can lead to a gummy texture. Always vent the lid and let it sit to achieve the right consistency.

• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking the veggies too long can result in mushiness. Grill them just until they are soft and lightly charred, which enhances flavor and texture.

• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your salad bland. Don’t forget to season both the veggies and dressing adequately for a flavorful dish.

• Using low-quality ingredients: Low-quality olive oil or feta can compromise the taste of your Mediterranean couscous salad. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients to elevate your dish.

• Not allowing flavors to meld: Serving immediately may not allow flavors to fully develop. Allowing the salad to sit briefly before serving enhances its flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Mediterranean couscous salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep any extra dressing separate if possible, to maintain freshness.

Freezing Mediterranean Couscous Salad

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Mediterranean Couscous Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mediterranean Couscous Salad?

Mediterranean couscous salad is a vibrant mix of pearl couscous, grilled vegetables, and a creamy basil lemon feta dressing, making it perfect as a side dish or light meal.

Can I make Mediterranean Couscous Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, allowing flavors to meld together.

How can I customize my Mediterranean Couscous Salad?

You can add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for added nutrition. Feel free to include other veggies like cherry tomatoes or olives based on your preference.

Is this Mediterranean Couscous Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep as it’s easy to divide into portions and keeps well in the fridge.

What should I serve with Mediterranean Couscous Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats or fish, making it an excellent side dish for summer BBQs or picnics.

Final Thoughts

The Mediterranean couscous salad is not only delicious but also versatile. Its blend of grilled veggies and creamy dressing makes it appealing for various occasions. Customize it with your favorite ingredients or serve it alongside different mains. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Mediterranean Couscous Salad

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the vibrant taste of Mediterranean cuisine with this delightful Couscous Salad, featuring a medley of grilled vegetables and fluffy pearl couscous. Tossed in a creamy basil lemon feta dressing, this salad is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a light weeknight dinner, it’s a versatile dish that appeals to everyone. With its fresh ingredients and easy preparation, you can effortlessly impress your guests or enjoy it as a nutritious meal prep option.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup pearl couscous
• 1 zucchini (cut into long slices)
• 1 yellow squash (cut into long slices)
• 1 red bell pepper (cut into long slices, removing the stem and seeds)
• 1 poblano pepper (cut into long slices, removing the stem and seeds)
• 1 small red onion (peeled and cut into large wedges keeping the core intact)
• 8 ounces mushrooms
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• ¼ cup basil leaves (packed and roughly chopped)
• Olive oil spray
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Cook the couscous in a medium saucepan with water and salt until tender. Let it rest.
2. Toss chopped vegetables with olive oil spray and seasoning in a large bowl.
3. Grill the seasoned vegetables on medium-high heat until charred and tender.
4. Blend dressing ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
5. Mix grilled veggies and couscous in a bowl; add dressing and toss to combine.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 340mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 15mg