Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is packed with fresh ingredients that are both nutritious and delicious. The couscous provides a comforting base, while the cucumbers offer a cool, crisp texture. The feta adds a creamy, salty bite, and the fresh herbs bring an extra layer of flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, and the light lemon dressing ties everything together perfectly. It’s the kind of salad that’s as satisfying as it is refreshing.
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the couscous according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked couscous, diced cucumber, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the couscous mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately, or chill in the fridge for an hour before serving for extra flavor.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you want to chill it before serving, plan for an additional hour in the fridge.
Variations
- Add protein: You can easily add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to turn this salad into a more filling main dish.
- Swap the feta: If you prefer a dairy-free version, try substituting the feta with a plant-based alternative or skip it altogether.
- Add olives: For an extra burst of Mediterranean flavor, try adding Kalamata olives to the salad.
- Use quinoa instead of couscous: If you’re gluten-free or want a heartier base, quinoa is a great alternative to couscous.
Storage/Reheating
This Cucumber Feta Couscous Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve after sitting for a few hours, so it’s perfect for meal prep! Since it’s served cold, there’s no need to reheat it. If you prefer it at room temperature, let it sit out for 15-20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad is actually better when it sits for a bit. You can make it a few hours ahead or the night before and let the flavors meld in the fridge.
2. Can I use a different type of couscous?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat couscous, pearl couscous (Israeli couscous), or quinoa if you prefer.
3. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to get creative! Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even roasted vegetables would work well in this salad.
4. How can I make this salad vegan?
To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese or tofu.
5. Can I use store-bought dressing?
While homemade dressing adds the best flavor, you can certainly use a store-bought vinaigrette if you’re short on time.
6. How long will this salad last in the fridge?
This salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
7. Can I freeze this salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the cucumbers and dressing will not hold up well after freezing.
8. Can I add herbs other than parsley?
Yes, you can experiment with basil, mint, or dill to change the flavor profile of the salad.
9. How do I make this salad more filling?
Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or roasted vegetables to make the salad more substantial.
10. Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?
Fresh lemon juice is always best, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch.
Conclusion
This Cucumber Feta Couscous Salad is a simple yet satisfying dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Its fresh ingredients and light, tangy dressing make it perfect for any occasion, from picnics to potlucks. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a light main course, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it!
