Herby Lemon Couscous Salad

Name: Herby Lemon Couscous Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fit & Flavorful Recipes

Bright and refreshing, this Herby Lemon Couscous Salad is the perfect side dish for any meal or a light lunch on its own.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2025-12-29T18:54:28.167Z

This Herby Lemon Couscous Salad is a delightful medley of flavors and textures. The zesty lemon dressing perfectly complements the fluffy couscous and fresh herbs, making it a vibrant addition to any meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and zesty flavor that's refreshing and satisfying
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile dish that pairs well with various proteins or can be enjoyed on its own

      

A Burst of Freshness

This Herby Lemon Couscous Salad brings together a delightful medley of fresh ingredients, making it a true celebration of flavors. The combination of cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and aromatic herbs like parsley and mint creates a vibrant dish that's not only visually appealing but also satisfying to the palate. The addition of feta cheese adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the crunch of the vegetables.

Lemon juice and zest infuse the salad with a zesty kick, elevating the overall taste experience. This salad is an excellent way to incorporate more fresh produce into your diet while enjoying a dish that feels light and refreshing. Whether served as a side or a main course, the freshness of this salad is sure to impress.

Quick and Convenient

One of the standout features of this Herby Lemon Couscous Salad is its quick preparation time. Within just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious and nutritious salad ready to serve. This ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Simply cook the couscous, whip up the dressing, and toss everything together for a meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Additionally, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what's in your pantry or your personal preferences. Add in grilled chicken for protein, toss in some chickpeas for heartiness, or throw in seasonal vegetables for a twist. This versatility means you can enjoy this salad repeatedly without it feeling monotonous.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, preparing for a picnic, or looking for a light lunch option, this Herby Lemon Couscous Salad fits the bill perfectly. Its bright colors and fresh flavors make it an attractive addition to any table setting, while its lightness ensures it won't weigh you down. Friends and family will appreciate the refreshing taste that complements a variety of main dishes.

Moreover, this salad can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep. Prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week, and you'll have a delicious and healthy side or lunch option ready to go. The flavors only deepen as it sits, allowing for a delightful, make-ahead meal that saves you time without sacrificing quality.

Ingredients

Couscous Salad Ingredients

1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Salt and pepper to taste

Lemon Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl for a delicious salad.

Instructions

Prepare the Couscous

In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, mint, and feta. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This salad is great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Storage Tips

To keep your Herby Lemon Couscous Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3-5 days. If you notice the cucumbers or tomatoes releasing moisture, consider adding them fresh when serving to maintain their crispness.

If you're making the salad ahead of time, you can also prepare the couscous and dressing separately, combining them just before serving. This helps preserve the texture of the vegetables and keeps the flavors vibrant.

Serving Suggestions

This Herby Lemon Couscous Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it an excellent side dish for chicken, lamb, or fish. The zesty lemon dressing complements the smoky flavors of grilled dishes and adds a refreshing contrast.

For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a protein-rich option like chickpeas or quinoa. The salad's versatility allows it to shine in various culinary contexts, making it suitable for both casual gatherings and more formal occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for couscous?

You can use quinoa or bulgur as a substitute for couscous in this recipe.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

To make this salad gluten-free, use gluten-free couscous or quinoa.

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

The salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.