Pearl Couscous Salad with Chickpeas
A vibrant, zesty salad featuring toasted pearl couscous, chickpeas, fresh herbs, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a bright lemon-herb dressing. It’s wholesome, refreshing, and tastes even better as it sits — a perfect dish for meal prep, picnics, or a light Mediterranean dinner.
Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad
1 cup pearl couscous (also called Israeli couscous)
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (optional but refreshing)
2 tbsp olive oil, for toasting couscous
For the Lemon-Herb Dressing
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional for balance)
½ tsp Dijon mustard
1 small garlic clove, minced
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the couscous:
In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
Add couscous and toast for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
Add 1½ cups water and a pinch of salt.
Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 10 minutes, or until tender.
Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
2. Prepare the dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, zest, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Assemble the salad:
In a large bowl, combine cooled couscous, chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta, parsley, and mint.
Pour over the dressing and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
4. Taste & adjust:
Add more lemon juice or olive oil if needed.
Chill for 15–20 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Notes & Tips
To make it heartier: add roasted vegetables (like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant).
To make it vegan: omit or replace feta with vegan cheese or toasted pine nuts.
Meal prep friendly: keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days — great for lunches.
Add avocado just before serving for a creamy touch.
️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with grilled chicken, salmon, or halloumi.
Serve on a bed of arugula or spinach for extra greens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 11 g
Fat: 17 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 6 g