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Weeknight • Vegetarian

Mediterranean Chickpea & Couscous Bowls

A vibrant and flavorful vegetarian bowl with fluffy couscous, seasoned chickpeas, fresh veggies, and a tangy lemon dressing.

Prep
15 min
Cook
10 min
Servings
2
Level
Weeknight
Mediterranean Chickpea & Couscous Bowls

Get ready for a burst of fresh flavors with these Mediterranean Chickpea & Couscous Bowls! They’re light yet satisfying, packed with colorful veggies, protein-rich chickpeas, and a zesty dressing that ties everything together. Perfect for meal prep, a quick lunch, or a healthy weeknight dinner – you'll feel nourished and happy after every bite!

Ingredients

Yield: 2 servings

For the Couscous & Chickpeas

  • 1/2 cup uncooked couscous
  • 1/2 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
  • 1 (15-oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • Pinch of salt and black pepper

For the Bowls

  • 1/2 English cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, omit for vegan)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Lemon Dressing

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Pinch of black pepper

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Prepare couscous: Place uncooked couscous in a heatproof bowl. Pour boiling water or broth over it, cover tightly with a plate or plastic wrap, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

  2. Step 2

    While couscous steams, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add rinsed chickpeas, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chickpeas are lightly browned and slightly crispy.

  3. Step 3

    Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

  4. Step 4

    Assemble the bowls: Divide the fluffed couscous between two bowls. Top with the seasoned chickpeas, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.

  5. Step 5

    Drizzle generously with the lemon dressing. Sprinkle with crumbled feta (if using) and fresh parsley. Serve immediately or pack for a delicious meal prep lunch!

Tips

  • For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or salmon to these bowls.
  • Feel free to customize the veggies! Bell peppers, olives, or roasted zucchini would all be delicious additions.
  • These bowls are fantastic for meal prep. Store dressing separately and add just before serving to keep veggies fresh.

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