Couscous Salad with Vegetables and Chickpeas

Name: Couscous Salad with Vegetables and Chickpeas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 85 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous (uncooked); 1 cup boiling water; 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1 medium cucumber (diced); 1 medium red bell pepper (diced); 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped); 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped); 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

85 min 6 servings Easy

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Couscous Salad with Vegetables and Chickpeas

A refreshing couscous salad packed with vibrant vegetables and protein-rich chickpeas, perfect as a side or a light meal.

Prep

15 min

Cook

10 min

Total

85 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Couscous salad with vegetables and chickpeas is a versatile and flavourful dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. This salad combines fluffy couscous with a colourful array of vegetables and protein-rich chickpeas, making it both nutritious and satisfying. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish for your favourite grilled meats, this couscous salad is easy to prepare and can be customized with your preferred vegetables. The light lemon dressing adds a refreshing tang, elevating the overall flavour profile of the dish.

Ingredients

Servings

For the Salad

For the Dressing

Instructions

Prepare the couscous

Place the couscous in a large bowl and pour the boiling water over it. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Pro tip: For added flavour, use vegetable broth instead of water.

Prepare the vegetables

Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Combine them in a large mixing bowl.

Pro tip: Ensure uniform sizes for even texture and presentation.

Mix the salad

Add the prepared couscous and chickpeas to the bowl with vegetables. Toss gently to combine.

Pro tip: Use a large spoon to avoid mashing the ingredients.

Make the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Pro tip: Adjust seasoning to taste, if necessary.

Dress the salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until the ingredients are evenly coated.

Pro tip: For best results, let the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour.

Garnish and serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Pro tip: Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra burst of flavour.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use whole wheat couscous for added fibre and nutrients.</li><li>Customize the vegetables based on seasonal availability.</li><li>Chill the salad for at least an hour to enhance flavours.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

This couscous salad can be made ahead, allowing the flavours to meld beautifully. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. Serve it as a side to grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it on its own for a light, refreshing meal. Pair with a crisp white wine to complement the citrusy dressing.