Mediterranean Couscous Salad Bowl

Name: Mediterranean Couscous Salad Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color); 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Meals

I absolutely love how refreshing and vibrant this Mediterranean Couscous Salad Bowl is! The blend of fluffy couscous with crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing creates a dish that not only bursts with flavor but is also incredibly satisfying. Whether it's for a quick lunch or a dinner party, this salad can be a delightful centerpiece. It’s quick to prepare and even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep too!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:34:27.997Z

When I first made this Mediterranean Couscous Salad Bowl, I was amazed by how such simple ingredients could create a dish that felt both hearty and light. The key is in the freshness of the vegetables and the quality of the olive oil. I often add a splash of lemon juice at the end for an extra layer of brightness, which really makes the flavors pop.

This recipe has evolved over time as I've experimented with various toppings. I once tried adding roasted chickpeas for added protein and crunch, which was an absolute game-changer! Whenever I make it now, I always include some herbs for that authentic Mediterranean touch.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and colorful presentation that’s a feast for the eyes
Nutty flavor of couscous complemented by fresh herbs and vegetables
Easy to customize with your favorite proteins or seasonal veggies

Understanding Couscous

Couscous, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, has a unique texture that contributes to the overall appeal of this salad. Made from semolina flour, couscous becomes fluffy and light when cooked properly. It's key to use vegetable broth rather than water for cooking, as this infuses additional flavor into the couscous, enhancing the entire dish. After cooking, allow it to cool slightly before mixing with the vegetables to maintain its texture and prevent sogginess.

When fluffing couscous with a fork, make sure to gently separate the grains without mashing them together. This technique ensures that each bite retains a delightful bite and doesn't clump together, creating a wonderful contrast to the crunchy vegetables in the salad.

Ingredient Variations

This Mediterranean Couscous Salad is highly adaptable based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. If you prefer a heartier version, consider adding protein such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even shrimp. Each addition will bring a new flavor profile and texture, making it even more satisfying. Feel free to explore different seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or radishes for added color and crunch.

For those looking to make the dish gluten-free, quinoa is an excellent substitution for couscous, providing a similar fluffy texture. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package as the cooking time may vary slightly from traditional couscous.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This salad is perfect for meal prep, as the flavors meld beautifully after a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. To store, transfer the salad to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The freshness of the vegetables may diminish a bit, but the overall taste will be enhanced as the ingredients soak up the dressing.

When you're ready to enjoy, give it a good stir and taste for seasoning as you might need to add a splash more lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil to revive the flavors. If you find the salad has become a bit dry, a small amount of water can help with the texture while keeping it light.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful salad that celebrates Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients

1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match the ingredients as you prefer. Enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious Mediterranean Couscous Salad Bowl.

Cook the Couscous

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Once boiling, add the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed, then fluff with a fork.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the couscous cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell peppers. Set them aside in a large mixing bowl.

Combine Ingredients

Once the couscous is ready and cooled slightly, add it to the bowl with the chopped vegetables. Stir in the feta cheese, olives, and parsley.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well to combine.

Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

This salad is great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider throwing in grilled chicken or chickpeas. Allow the salad to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, consider serving this salad in individual bowls, garnished with extra feta and parsley. Pair it with a light protein such as grilled fish or chicken for a complete meal. Alternatively, you can serve it as a side dish at a gathering, complementing it with other Mediterranean-inspired dishes like hummus or tzatziki.

Another fun way to serve this Mediterranean Couscous Salad is in wrap form! Use large lettuce leaves or whole wheat wraps to encase the colorful mixture, making a portable meal that's perfect for picnics or blue skies outside.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your couscous turns out too sticky, it may have absorbed too much liquid during cooking. Next time, reduce the broth slightly and ensure you fluff the couscous while it's still warm to avoid sticking. If needed, you can also add a touch of olive oil when fluffing to separate the grains further.

For overly salty flavors, balance the dish by adding more cucumbers or tomatoes to dilute the saltiness. You can also mix in a small amount of unsalted yogurt or a homemade dressing to help integrate the flavors better. Always remember to taste as you go for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quinoa instead of couscous?

Absolutely! Quinoa is a great gluten-free alternative that adds a nice texture.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover couscous salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add steamed broccoli, artichoke hearts, or any seasonal veggies you prefer!

→ Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Yes! You can easily make it vegan by omitting the feta cheese or using a non-dairy substitute.