Mediterranean Couscous Salad
This Mediterranean couscous salad is ready in just 15 minutes, easy to make, and loads mixed fresh veggies with chewy couscous and protein-rich chickpeas in a bright balsamic vinaigrette for a delicious and nutritious summery light main or side!
Servings: 4 to 6
Calories: 510kcal
Ingredients
- 1 cup of uncooked couscous
- 1 cup of vegetable broth
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 (15-ounce) can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 red or green bell pepper, diced
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- ½ cup of black olives, pitted and sliced
- ½ red onion, diced
- 1 lemon
- ¼ cup of parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of agave or maple syrup
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a medium pot over medium heat, add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once the broth starts to boil, add the couscous. Quickly place the lid on the pan, remove the pot from the heat and allow it to sit undisturbed for 5 to 10 minutes. Remove the lid and fluff with a fork.
- Transfer the couscous to a large salad bowl and allow it to cool completely.
- Add the tomatoes, chickpeas, bell pepper, cucumber, olives, onion, lemon, and parsley.
- In a small bowl or jar, mix the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, agave or maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Mix well and pour to taste over the salad.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor: Lightly toast the couscous until fragrant before adding the broth for a nuttier flavor that enhances any salad with couscous.
- To save time: Utilize any kitchen tools you have, like a mandoline or food chopper, to speed up the vegetable prep.
- Chop the veggies evenly: Adapt the texture by deciding how big/small to make them. Even-sized pieces are recommended.
- Use the freshest ingredients: This vegetable couscous salad relies on simple produce, so make sure it’s fresh for the best overall texture/flavor.
Nutrition
Calories: 510kcal | Carbohydrates: 76g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Sodium: 532mg | Potassium: 713mg | Fiber: 13g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 885IU | Vitamin C: 57mg | Calcium: 106mg | Iron: 5mg
