If you’re looking for a light and refreshing salad that is full of flavor, our favorite lemon herb couscous salad is the perfect choice. This salad is made with fluffy couscous, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing that adds a tangy kick. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a main course.
To make this salad, start by cooking the couscous according to the package instructions. While the couscous is cooking, chop up a variety of herbs such as parsley, mint, and dill. These herbs not only add a burst of freshness, but they also provide a pop of color to the salad. Once the couscous is cooked and cooled, mix in the herbs and add a handful of crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and tangy flavor.
To finish off the salad, make a simple lemon dressing by whisking together lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this refreshing dressing over the couscous mixture and toss everything together until well combined. The lemony dressing perfectly complements the flavors of the herbs and feta cheese, creating a salad that is both light and satisfying.
This lemon herb couscous salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish for grilled meats. It’s a crowd-pleaser that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. So take advantage of the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs and the tanginess of lemon and enjoy this delicious salad!
The Perfect Lemon Herb Couscous Salad Recipe
The key to a perfect Lemon Herb Couscous Salad lies in the combination of fresh ingredients and the balance of flavors. The recipe starts with cooking the couscous, a small grain pasta made from semolina, which provides a light and fluffy base for the salad. After cooking the couscous, it is important to let it cool completely before adding the rest of the ingredients.
Next, the salad is infused with the refreshing flavors of lemon and herbs. Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest give the salad a citrusy kick, while a combination of herbs like parsley, mint, and cilantro add a vibrant and aromatic touch. Along with the herbs, diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese are added to provide a burst of freshness and a creamy, salty element to the salad.
To bring all the flavors together, a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey is whisked together and drizzled over the salad. The vinaigrette not only adds a tangy and sweet flavor but also helps to bind the ingredients together.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups boiling water
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the Lemon Herb Couscous Salad, start by cooking the couscous according to the package instructions using the boiling water. Once cooked, fluff the couscous with a fork and let it cool completely.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice and zest, Dijon mustard, and honey to make the vinaigrette. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled couscous, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, chopped parsley, mint, and cilantro. Toss gently to combine.
Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss again to coat all the ingredients evenly. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and give it a final toss.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 10 minutes | 20 minutes |
The Lemon Herb Couscous Salad is now ready to be served. It can be enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a main course by adding grilled chicken or shrimp. With its refreshing flavors and easy preparation, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients and Preparation
- Couscous: The base of the salad is made with fluffy, cooked couscous. It is important to follow the cooking instructions on the couscous packaging to ensure it is cooked properly.
- Vegetables: The salad is packed with colorful and crunchy vegetables. Common vegetables used in this recipe include bell peppers, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onions. These vegetables add freshness and texture to the dish.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley and mint are essential in this salad. They provide a bright and aromatic flavor that pairs well with the lemon dressing.
- Lemon dressing: The dressing is made by combining lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and salt. It adds a tangy and zesty taste to the salad, enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Feta cheese: Feta cheese crumbles are sprinkled on top of the salad before serving. The creamy and salty cheese adds a nice contrasting flavor to the fresh vegetables and herbs.
To prepare the salad, start by cooking the couscous according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff it up with a fork and let it cool. While the couscous is cooling, chop the vegetables and herbs into bite-sized pieces. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and salt to make the dressing.
Next, combine the cooled couscous, chopped vegetables, and herbs in a large serving bowl. Pour the lemon dressing over the salad and toss well to evenly coat all the ingredients. Finally, sprinkle the feta cheese crumbles on top and serve the salad immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for a few hours to let the flavors meld together. It makes a delicious and refreshing side dish for any meal or can be enjoyed as a light and healthy lunch on its own.
