Description
Batch Cooked Couscous Salad is a versatile, make-ahead meal perfect for lunches, picnics, or as a side dish. Fluffy couscous is combined with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing, offering a light yet satisfying option that can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients
– 2 cups Pearl Israeli Couscous
– 4 cups Vegetable Broth or Water
– 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
– 1 English Cucumber, diced
– 2 Bell Peppers (1 red, 1 yellow), diced
– 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved or quartered
– 1/2 cup Red Onion, finely diced
– 1 can (15 ounces) Chickpeas, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives, halved
– 1 cup Crumbled Feta Cheese
– 1/2 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup Fresh Mint, chopped
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth or water to a boil. Stir in couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and allow to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled couscous, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, chopped parsley, and mint.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over couscous mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Stir in optional feta cheese and toasted pine nuts if using.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, adjusting seasoning if necessary.
Notes
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it ideal for meal prep.
- Add grilled vegetables, chickpeas, or shredded chicken for extra protein and variety.
- For best results, allow the couscous to cool completely before adding other ingredients to prevent the vegetables from wilting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg