Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad
Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that beautifully combines chewy couscous with colorful vegetables and fragrant herbs. This salad serves as a delightful side or a light main course, perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or quick weeknight dinners. The zesty lemon Dijon dressing enhances the natural flavors of the fresh ingredients, making every bite an exciting experience. Easy to prepare and highly versatile, you can enjoy it on its own or pair it with grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein. Gather your loved ones around the table and savor this culinary creation that brings together nourishment and joy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 cups cooked couscous (or quinoa for gluten-free)
- 1 medium cucumber, chopped
- 2/3 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced purple onion
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (or vegan feta)
- 1/3 cup kalamata olives
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon real maple syrup
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook couscous according to package instructions in salted water or vegetable broth; drain and let cool.
- Prepare the vegetables: chop cucumber, slice cherry tomatoes, thinly slice purple onion (soak briefly in cold water), and have kalamata olives ready.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled couscous with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, purple onion, feta cheese, olives, dill, and parsley.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, lemon juice, maple syrup, and olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Drizzle dressing over salad and gently toss to combine. Let rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (230g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg