Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing
This bright and flavorful Mediterranean Couscous Salad is a refreshing and healthy side dish or light lunch. The combination of whole-wheat couscous, chopped vegetables, and a tangy lemon herb dressing creates a vibrant and satisfying dish. It's a quick and easy recipe that's perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight meals.
Couscous, a staple ingredient in North African cuisine, has a rich history dating back centuries. The earliest known evidence of couscous dates back to the 10th century, when it was mentioned in Arabic cookbooks. Couscous is traditionally made from semolina flour, which is derived from durum wheat. It is typically cooked by steaming it over a stew or boiling water. Over the centuries, couscous has spread to other parts of the world, including the Mediterranean region, where it has become a popular ingredient in various salads and main dishes. This Mediterranean Couscous Salad is inspired by the vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients of the Mediterranean cuisine. It combines the nutty flavor of whole-wheat couscous with the sweetness of bell peppers, the coolness of cucumbers, the juiciness of tomatoes, and the aromatic freshness of parsley and mint. The tangy lemon herb dressing adds a bright and refreshing touch, making this salad a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, fish, or as a light and healthy lunch option.
Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 5 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 cup whole-wheat couscous
  • 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
  • 1 cup chopped cucumber
  • 1 cup chopped tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
Instructions
  1. Cook the couscous according to package directions.
  2. Combine the couscous, bell pepper, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, parsley, mint, and lemon juice in a large bowl.
  3. Toss to coat.
  4. Serve immediately or chill for later.
Why It Works
  • The combination of whole-wheat couscous, chopped vegetables, and a tangy lemon herb dressing creates a vibrant and satisfying dish.
  • The use of whole-wheat couscous provides a nutty flavor and a chewy texture.
  • The variety of chopped vegetables adds color, texture, and a range of flavors to the salad.
  • The tangy lemon herb dressing enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and adds a refreshing touch.
  • The salad is quick and easy to prepare, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or summer gatherings.