Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad

Name: Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486745H38M56S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1.5 cups cooked couscous; 1 medium cucumber; 2/3 cup cherry tomatoes; 1/4 cup purple onion; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/3 cup kalamata olives; Fresh dill and parsley; Dressing: Dijon mustard, lemon juice, maple syrup, olive oil

Published: June 22, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it a quick option for busy days.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh veggies, herbs, and a tangy dressing creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as a side dish at gatherings; it fits seamlessly into any meal.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious components like cucumbers and tomatoes, it’s a guilt-free choice that nourishes your body.
Great for Meal Prep: This salad keeps well in the fridge, so you can make it ahead of time for convenient meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help you prepare and serve the dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts for uniform veggie pieces, enhancing both presentation and texture.
Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements guarantee consistent results every time you make the salad.

Ingredients

For the Salad Base

1.5 cups of cooked and cooled couscous
1 medium cucumber – chopped into 1-inch pieces (about 2/3 cup)
2/3 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup sliced purple onion
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/3 cup kalamata olives

For Fresh Herbs

2 tablespoons freshly minced dill
1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley

For the Dressing

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon real maple syrup
Kosher salt and black pepper – a pinch of each
1/4 cup olive oil

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Couscous

Start by ensuring your couscous is cooked according to package instructions. Once done, let it cool completely before mixing with other ingredients.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies

While the couscous cools:
* Use your sharp knife to chop the cucumber into 1-inch pieces.
* Slice the cherry tomatoes in half.
* Thinly slice the purple onion.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
* Add the cooled couscous.
* Toss in the chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, purple onion, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl:
* Whisk together Dijon mustard, lemon juice, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture:
* Gently toss everything together until evenly coated with dressing.

Step 6: Add Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle in the minced dill and chopped parsley:
* Mix again gently to distribute herbs evenly throughout the salad.

Step 7: Serve

Taste your Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad:
* Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!

How to Serve Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad

Serving Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad can elevate any meal. This vibrant salad is not only flavorful but also versatile, making it a perfect addition to various dishes or occasions.

As a Main Dish

This salad can stand alone as a light main dish for lunch or dinner. The combination of couscous, veggies, and feta provides a satisfying meal.

As a Side Salad

Pair this couscous salad with grilled meats or fish. Its fresh flavors complement the richness of grilled dishes beautifully.

At Picnics or BBQs

Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad is an excellent choice for outdoor gatherings. It travels well and is best served cold, making it ideal for warm days.

With Bread

Serve the salad alongside crusty bread or pita. This combo makes for a delightful and filling meal, perfect for sharing.

In Lunch Boxes

Pack this salad in lunch boxes for a nutritious midday meal. It keeps well and tastes great even after a few hours in the fridge.

How to Perfect Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad

Creating the perfect Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad involves attention to detail and fresh ingredients. Follow these tips to enhance your dish.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor of your salad significantly.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your salad before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your liking.
Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Add Protein: For extra nutrition, consider adding chickpeas or grilled chicken to make it more filling.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other ingredients like avocado or roasted peppers to customize your salad.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad

Pairing side dishes with Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delightful options that complement its fresh flavors.

Grilled Lemon Chicken: Juicy chicken marinated in lemon and herbs adds a zesty touch.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring warmth and depth.
Tzatziki Sauce: This cool yogurt dip made with cucumber pairs beautifully with the salad’s flavors.
Pita Bread: Soft pita bread is perfect for scooping up salad and adds texture.
Hummus Platter: A variety of hummus served with veggies offers additional protein and flavor contrasts.
Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl: Combine quinoa with similar ingredients for another healthy option that complements the couscous salad.
Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These savory bites filled with rice and herbs are traditional and delicious companions.
Feta Cheese Bites: Simple bites of feta drizzled with olive oil can amplify the cheese notes in your salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

Overcooking couscous: Overcooked couscous can become mushy and unappetizing. Follow the package instructions closely and rinse with cold water after cooking to cool it down.
Ignoring seasoning: A bland salad won’t be enjoyable. Be sure to add kosher salt and black pepper, as well as the lemon dijon dressing, to enhance the flavors.
Using stale ingredients: Freshness is key in this salad. Always use fresh herbs and vegetables for the best taste and texture.
Skipping the dressing: The dressing ties all the flavors together. Don’t skip it! Combine Dijon mustard, lemon juice, maple syrup, and olive oil for a tangy finish.
Not letting it chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for a bit helps meld the flavors. If you serve it immediately, you may miss out on that delicious combination.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad

This salad is not ideal for freezing as it will lose texture upon thawing.
If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad?

Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad is a refreshing dish made with cooked couscous, fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing. It’s perfect as a side or main dish.

How long can I store Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad?

You can store this salad in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container.

Can I customize my Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, chickpeas, or different cheeses according to your taste preferences.

Is Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is great for meal prep. Just prepare it ahead of time and pack it in individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

What are some serving suggestions for this salad?

Serve Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad alongside grilled meats or fish. It also works well as a light lunch or picnic dish on its own.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad is not only vibrant but also customizable. With its fresh ingredients and tangy dressing, it’s perfect for any occasion—be it a family dinner or a summer picnic. Don’t hesitate to adjust the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins; the possibilities are endless! Give it a try and enjoy its delicious versatility!

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