Fresh Mediterranean Couscous Salad for Vibrant Summer Gatherings
Enjoy a vibrant Mediterranean Couscous Salad, bursting with color and flavor, perfect for summer gatherings.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Pot
- Whisk
- - Fork
Ingredients
Vinaigrette
- 1.5 medium Lemon Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- ⅓ cup Olive Oil Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for superior taste.
- 1.5 tsp Dill Substitute with parsley or oregano if unavailable.
- 2 cloves Garlic Mince finely for an even distribution.
Couscous Base
- 2 cups Couscous Regular couscous is preferred.
- 3 cups Water Follow package directions for specific brands.
Veggies
- 2 cups Tomatoes Substitute with cherry tomatoes for more flavor.
- ⅓ cup Red Onion Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
- ½ whole Cucumber Use English cucumber for fewer seeds.
- 15 oz Chickpeas Canned chickpeas should be drained and rinsed.
- 14 oz Artichoke Hearts Frozen or fresh artichokes can also be used.
- ½ cup Olives Mix of kalamata and green olives recommended.
- 20 leaves Basil Leaves Use parsley or mint as alternatives.
Finishing Touch
- 4 oz Mozzarella Feta cheese can also create a distinct twist.
Instructions
Directions
- Begin by mincing the garlic and juicing the lemons into a bowl. Whisk together the lemon juice, garlic, dill, and olive oil until well emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toast the couscous for 2-3 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Carefully add boiling water, cover, and let simmer until the water is absorbed (about 10 minutes). Allow it to steam for an additional 5 minutes, fluffing with a fork before cooling.
- Dice the tomatoes, slice the red onion and cucumber, and chop the artichoke hearts. Rinse the chickpeas to remove excess sodium.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, chopped vegetables, and olives. Gently fold in the cooled couscous and basil leaves until everything is well mixed.
- Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad, mixing carefully until all ingredients are coated evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired.
- Tear the mozzarella into pieces and scatter on top just before you serve. Enjoy your salad at room temperature or chilled for a refreshing dish.
Notes
Allow the salad to cool before dressing it to avoid oily results; chilling also enhances the flavors.