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Easy • Vegetarian

Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Chickpeas

A bright and refreshing couscous salad loaded with Mediterranean flavors and hearty chickpeas.

Prep
15 min
Cook
5 min
Servings
4
Level
Easy
Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Chickpeas

Bright, fresh, and packed with flavor, this Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Chickpeas is a feast for the senses! It’s incredibly versatile, perfect for meal prep, picnics, or as a vibrant side dish. The fluffy couscous, savory chickpeas, and crisp veggies all come together with a zesty lemon-herb dressing for a truly delightful bite.

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

  • 1 cup dry couscous
  • 1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
  • 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
  • 1/2 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Lemon Herb Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a medium heatproof bowl, combine couscous with boiling water or broth. Cover tightly with a plate or lid and let stand for 5 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed and couscous is fluffy. Fluff with a fork.

  2. Step 2

    While couscous steams, prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.

  3. Step 3

    In a large bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and fresh parsley. Add crumbled feta cheese if using.

  4. Step 4

    Pour the dressing over the couscous mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are well combined and coated.

  5. Step 5

    Serve immediately or chill for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld. Leftovers are great for lunch!

Tips

  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a main course.
  • For a touch of sweetness, add a few chopped dates or dried cranberries.
  • If you don't have fresh lemon, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.

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