Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad for its bright, tangy flavor and ease of preparation. It’s light yet satisfying, packed with wholesome ingredients like tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs. The couscous soaks up the lemony dressing beautifully, making every forkful flavorful. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or can stand alone as a refreshing vegetarian meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Couscous
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Cucumber, diced
• Red onion, finely chopped
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Fresh mint, chopped (optional)
• Feta cheese, crumbled
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the couscous according to package directions. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well mixed.
5. Add crumbled feta cheese and gently stir to combine.
6. Chill for 20–30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Include chickpeas, grilled chicken, or shrimp for a more filling meal.
• Roasted Twist: Use roasted cherry tomatoes for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
• Different Grain: Substitute quinoa, bulgur, or farro for couscous.
• Vegan Option: Omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Herb Swap: Try basil or dill instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. Serve chilled or at room temperature. If the couscous absorbs too much dressing, simply add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of lemon juice before serving. No reheating is necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep and tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.

2. What kind of couscous works best?

Regular or pearl couscous both work—regular for a lighter texture and pearl for a chewier bite.

3. Can I serve it warm?

Yes, you can serve it slightly warm or chilled depending on preference.

4. How do I keep the couscous from clumping?

Fluff it with a fork after cooking and toss it with a little olive oil before adding the other ingredients.

5. Is this salad vegetarian?

Yes, it’s naturally vegetarian.

6. How can I make it vegan?

Omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese.

7. Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, arugula, or roasted zucchini all make great additions.

8. What pairs well with this salad?

It’s delicious with grilled chicken, fish, or falafel.

9. Can I use store-bought dressing?

Yes, but homemade lemon dressing gives the freshest flavor.

10. How long does it last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad is a light, flavorful, and colorful dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its mix of tender couscous, juicy tomatoes, and bright lemon dressing, it’s a refreshing option for any meal. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or weekday lunches, this salad is a vibrant celebration of simple ingredients and fresh Mediterranean flavor.

Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad

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Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad is a fresh and zesty Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring fluffy couscous, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and a bright lemon-garlic dressing. It’s light, colorful, and easy to prepare—perfect for picnics, lunches, or summer side dishes.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boil
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the couscous according to package directions. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until well mixed.
5. Add crumbled feta cheese and stir lightly to combine.
6. Chill for 20–30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Notes

• Fluff couscous immediately after cooking to prevent clumping.
• For a heartier meal, add chickpeas or grilled chicken.
• This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
• Use pearl couscous for a chewier texture.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature—no reheating needed.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 15mg