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Mediterranean Couscous Salad

How to Make the Ultimate Mediterranean Couscous Salad (So Easy!)

If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious, and utterly delicious dish, this Mediterranean Couscous Salad is about to become your new favorite! It’s light yet satisfying, bursting with zesty flavors, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re prepping for the week, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a wholesome meal, this recipe will not disappoint.

I’ve made countless variations of couscous salads over the years, tweaking ingredients and dressings to create the perfect balance of freshness, texture, and taste. This particular version is my all-time favorite because it’s versatile, meal-prep friendly, and aesthetic enough to serve in a gorgeous salad bowl!

How to Make the Ultimate Mediterranean Couscous Salad (So Easy!)

This post may contain affiliate links at no extra cost to you. Please read our full disclosure here to find out more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Super Easy & Quick: Ready in just 30 minutes!

  • Packed with Nutrients: Loaded with roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and cauliflower.

  • Lemony & Zesty: A flavor-packed dressing ties everything together.

  • Customizable: Make it vegan or add chicken for extra protein.

  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Stays fresh for days in the fridge.

  • Aesthetic Presentation: Ideal for a stunning Instagram-worthy salad bowl.

    • Ingredients You’ll Need

    To create this vibrant couscous salad Mediterranean-style, gather these simple ingredients:

    For the Salad:

  • 1 cup couscous (traditional or pearl)

  • 1 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth

  • 1 cup chickpeas (canned, drained & rinsed)

  • 1 cup cauliflower florets

  • 1 zucchini, diced

  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped

  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced (optional but highly recommended)

  • 1/4 cup feta cheese (skip for vegan version)

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

    • For the Lemony Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tsp lemon zest

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • 1/2 tsp cumin

  • 1/2 tsp paprika

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

    • Optional Protein Addition:

  • 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken (for a heartier meal)

    • Step-by-Step Instructions

    1. Prepare the Couscous

    In a medium pot, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil. Remove from heat, stir in couscous, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork to prevent clumping.

    2. Roast the Vegetables

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cauliflower, zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

    3. Make the Lemony Dressing

    In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

    4. Assemble the Salad Bowl

    In a large bowl, combine couscous, roasted vegetables, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, olives, parsley, and mint. Pour over the lemony dressing and toss well.

    5. Add Protein (Optional)

    For a vegan version, stick with chickpeas. If you prefer added protein, toss in shredded chicken.

    6. Final Touches

    Top with feta cheese (if using) and give it one last gentle toss. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

    My Top 3 Amazon Product Recommendations

    1. Cuisinart Stainless Steel Chef's Knife – Available on Amazon

    Every great dish starts with good prep, and a sharp, high-quality knife makes chopping vegetables a breeze. This Cuisinart Chef’s Knife is my go-to for precise, effortless slicing.

    Why I Love It: Ultra-sharp, durable, and affordable.

    Get yours here

    2. OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner – Available on Amazon

    Fresh herbs make this salad zing with flavor, but washing and drying them can be a hassle. This OXO Salad Spinner makes it quick and mess-free!

    Why You Need This: Keeps greens dry and fresh longer.

    Grab it now

    3. Cuisinart Mixing Bowl Set – Available on Amazon

    An aesthetic salad bowl makes all the difference! This Le Creuset set is functional, stylish, and perfect for serving.

    Perfect For: Elegant presentation & durable use.

    Order yours today

    Tips for the Best Mediterranean Couscous Salad

  • Let the dressing soak in for at least 10 minutes before serving.

  • Use pearl couscous for a chewy bite, or fine couscous for a fluffier texture.

  • Roast extra cauliflower to add more bulk to the salad.

  • Make it gluten-free by substituting quinoa for couscous.

  • Store in airtight containers for fresh meal prep all week.

    • How to Make the Ultimate Mediterranean Couscous Salad (So Easy!)

    Serving Ideas & Variations

  • Serve in an aesthetic salad bowl for a beautiful presentation.

  • Pair with hummus and pita bread for a complete Mediterranean feast.

  • Add toasted pine nuts or almonds for extra crunch.

  • Swap chickpeas for white beans if preferred.

    • This Mediterranean Couscous Salad is a delicious, vibrant, and nourishing meal that’s easy to make, meal-prep friendly, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a quick meal to pack for work, this recipe checks all the boxes.

    I’d love to hear how you customize your salad! Try this recipe and tag me on Instagram with your version. Happy cooking!

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