Healthy Homemade Couscous Salad Recipe

 Healthy Homemade Couscous Salad Recipe

A vibrant, nutrient-packed salad perfect for meal prep or a light meal. Gluten-free and vegan options included!

  Ingredients (Serves 4)  

  Base:

- 1 cup couscous (use whole wheat for extra fiber or gluten-free couscous)  

- 1½ cups boiling water or vegetable broth  

- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed  

- ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved  

Healthy couscous salad with vegetables and feta  

 Veggies & Herbs:

- 1 medium cucumber, diced  

- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved  

- 1 red bell pepper, diced  

- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped  

- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped  

- ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)  

  Dressing:  

- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil  

- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)  

- 1 garlic clove, minced  

- 1 tsp ground cumin  

- ½ tsp smoked paprika  

- Salt and pepper to taste  

  Optional Add-Ins:

- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (omit for vegan)  

- ¼ cup toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds  

- ¼ cup raisins or chopped dried apricots  

Easy vegan salad recipe with couscous

  Instructions 

1. Prepare the Couscous:

   - Place couscous in a large bowl. Pour boiling water or broth over it, cover, and let sit for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.  

2. Chop Veggies & Herbs:

   - Dice cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Halve cherry tomatoes and olives. Chop parsley and mint.  

3. Make the Dressing:

   - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.  

4. Assemble the Salad:

   - In the large bowl with couscous, add chickpeas, olives, chopped veggies, and herbs. Pour dressing over and toss gently to combine.  

5. Serve:

   - Top with feta, nuts, or dried fruit if using. Serve chilled or at room temperature.  

Gluten-free lunch salad with chickpeas

  Tips

- Meal Prep: Stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.  

- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or tofu.  

- Low-Carb Swap: Replace couscous with cauliflower rice.  

- Extra Freshness: Add avocado or spinach just before serving.  

  Enjoy a colorful, fiber-rich meal packed with plant-based protein and healthy fats!** 🌱🥗