Chilled Couscous Bowl with Feta Grapes Mint & Citrus-Honey Dressing
This cold couscous bowl combines juicy grapes, tangy citrus segments, crisp cucumbers, crumbly feta, and fluffy couscous with a bright honey-lemon dressing. Topped with fresh mint and pistachios, it’s sweet, salty, herbaceous, and simply gorgeous in a bowl!
⏱ Time:
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Chill: 15 minutes (optional but best!)
- Total: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the couscous base:
¾ cup couscous
1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
1 tbsp olive oil
Pinch of salt
For the toppings:
½ cup green or red grapes, halved
1 orange or clementine, peeled and segmented
¼ cup cucumber, diced
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
2 tbsp roasted pistachios or walnuts, chopped
1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
Citrus-Honey Dressing:
1½ tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey (or maple syrup)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the couscous:
In a bowl, combine couscous, boiling water/broth, olive oil, and salt.
Cover and let sit for 5–7 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Let it cool fully (refrigerate for quick chilling).
2. Make the dressing:
Whisk together lemon juice, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the bowl:
In a mixing bowl, combine cooled couscous, grapes, orange segments, cucumber, and half the mint.
Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.
4. Plate and top:
Transfer to a bowl or plate.
Add crumbled feta, pistachios, remaining mint, and optional lemon zest on top.
Tips:
- Add pomegranate seeds or strawberries for extra fruit variety.
- Want protein? Add grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Make it a full meal by serving over arugula or baby spinach.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ:
Q: Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! It’s even better after chilling. Just add nuts and herbs right before serving for crunch and freshness.
Q: What can I use instead of couscous?
Try quinoa, orzo, or bulgur for variation.
Nutritional Value
Calories: ~310
Protein: 9g
Carbs: 34g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 4g