Flavorful Cucumber Couscous Salad Recipe
This Flavorful Cucumber Couscous Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish featuring tender Israeli couscous, crisp cucumber slices, fresh parsley, zesty lemon, and creamy crumbled feta cheese. Lightly dressed with a lemon-olive oil vinaigrette infused with garlic powder and cracked pepper, it offers a perfect balance of brightness and savory flavors, making it an ideal side or light meal for warm days or any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Couscous
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups Israeli couscous
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 medium cucumbers
- 1/4 bunch parsley
- 1 medium lemon (zested and juiced)
Dressing and Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Freshly cracked pepper to taste
Cheese
- 3 oz. crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Israeli Couscous: Bring a medium pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 1/2 to 2 cups of Israeli couscous and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender. Drain the couscous using a colander and rinse briefly with cool water, then allow it to drain completely.
- Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs: Slice 2 medium cucumbers into quarter rounds and place them in a large bowl. Chop about 1/4 bunch of parsley and add it to the bowl. Zest 1 medium lemon and sprinkle the zest into the bowl as well.
- Make the Dressing: Cut the zested lemon in half and squeeze out 2-3 tablespoons of juice into a small bowl. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Stir well to combine into a zesty dressing.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: Pour the lemon dressing over the cucumbers, parsley, and lemon zest. Stir to coat evenly. Add the cooled couscous and 3 ounces of crumbled feta cheese, gently mixing everything until well combined.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Sample the salad and add extra salt or pepper as desired to balance and enhance the flavors.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately for the freshest taste or refrigerate until ready to eat. This salad is perfect as a light meal or a vibrant side dish.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh parsley and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Chilling the salad for 30 minutes before serving enhances the flavors.
- You can substitute regular couscous, but Israeli couscous provides the best texture.
- Add toasted pine nuts or chopped mint for extra texture and aroma if desired.
Keywords: Cucumber Couscous Salad, Israeli Couscous Salad, Mediterranean Salad, Healthy Salad, Vegetarian Salad, Lemon Feta Salad
