A refreshing and healthy couscous salad perfect for a light dinner or as a side dish.

Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
10min
Total Time
25min
Couscous Salad recipe

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 bowl)

Salad Ingredients

  • 1cup
    couscous
  • 1cup
    water
  • 1cup
    cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1cup
    cucumber, diced
  • 1cup
    bell pepper, diced
  • 1cup
    chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1tbsp
    olive oil
  • 1tbsp
    lemon juice
  • 1tsp
    salt
  • 1tsp
    pepper
  • 1sprig
    fresh parsley, chopped

How to make Couscous Salad

Preparation

  1. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil.

  2. Add couscous to the boiling water, cover, and remove from heat.

  3. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the couscous absorbs the water.

  4. Fluff the couscous with a fork and let it cool.

Mixing the Salad

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and chickpeas.

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

  4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Tricks

  1. You can add other vegetables or proteins like feta cheese or grilled chicken for extra flavor.

  2. This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

FAQS

  1. How do I cook couscous for a salad?

    To cook couscous for a salad, bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a saucepan. Once boiling, add 1 cup of couscous, cover the pan, and remove it from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the couscous absorbs the water. Fluff it with a fork and allow it to cool before mixing it with your salad ingredients.

  2. What are some good substitutions for ingredients in couscous salad?

    If you want to customize your couscous salad, you can substitute cherry tomatoes with diced red onions or roasted red peppers. Instead of cucumber, try using zucchini or radishes. For a protein boost, you can replace chickpeas with black beans or diced grilled chicken.

  3. Is couscous salad suitable for a vegan diet?

    Yes, this couscous salad is completely vegan! It contains no animal products, making it a great option for those following a vegan diet. The chickpeas provide a good source of protein, while the fresh vegetables add essential nutrients.

  4. How should I store leftover couscous salad?

    To store leftover couscous salad, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry after storage, you can add a little extra olive oil or lemon juice before serving.

  5. What dishes pair well with couscous salad?

    Couscous salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or fish, making it a great side dish for summer barbecues. It also complements Mediterranean dishes, such as falafel or stuffed peppers, and can be served alongside a light soup for a complete meal.

Loading reviews...

sumansauthenticrecipe's profile picture
instagram

Suman Yadav

(@sumansauthenticrecipe)

Kitchen/cooking 🥘Authentic Recipe 🍱Everyday Lunch Thali ideas 👌Easy | Quick | Food Hack | Healthy Recipe...

chefadora
© 2025 Chefadora Pty Ltd, All Rights Reserved

Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia