Citrus Fennel & Olive Couscous Bowl with Mint and Toasted Almonds
Juicy orange segments, thin-shaved fennel, briny olives, and fresh herbs are tossed with chilled couscous and crunchy almonds, then lightly dressed with a citrus-olive oil vinaigrette. It’s cooling, aromatic, and totally Mediterranean — a perfect mix of savory, sweet, and crisp.
⏱ Time:
- Prep: 20 minutes
- Cook: 10 minutes
- Chill: 10 minutes
- Total: ~35–40 minutes
Ingredients
For the couscous base:
¾ cup couscous
1 cup boiling water or veggie broth
1 tbsp olive oil
Pinch of salt
For the bowl:
1 small fennel bulb, very thinly sliced (use a mandoline if you can)
1 orange, peeled and segmented (or ½ orange + ½ grapefruit for variety)
¼ cup pitted green or black olives, halved
2 tbsp chopped fresh mint or parsley
¼ cup crumbled feta
2 tbsp toasted slivered almonds (or pistachios)
Optional: A handful of arugula or baby greens
For the citrus vinaigrette:
1 tbsp orange juice (from segmenting)
1 tsp lemon juice
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions::
1. Prepare the couscous:
In a bowl, add couscous, olive oil, salt, and boiling water or broth.
Cover and let sit for 5–10 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Chill.
2. Make the vinaigrette:
Whisk orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the salad:
In a mixing bowl, combine couscous with shaved fennel, citrus segments, olives, and herbs.
Toss with vinaigrette.
4. Top and serve:
Add crumbled feta, toasted almonds, and arugula if using.
Garnish with fennel fronds and more herbs.
Tips:
- Add a few slices of avocado or grilled shrimp for an extra special twist.
- Use blood orange in season for color and depth.
- Replace couscous with farro or barley for a chewier texture.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ:
Q: Can I make this nut-free?
Yes — just skip the almonds or sub with roasted sunflower seeds.
Q: What if I don’t like fennel?
Use thinly shaved celery or radish for crunch instead.
Nutritional Value
Calories: ~310
Protein: 8g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 4g