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cold pearl couscous salad recipe

Cold Pearl Couscous Salad

Sofia RussoSofia Russo
A refreshing and easy-to-make cold pearl couscous salad featuring Mediterranean flavors, perfect for summer meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 8 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot for boiling couscous
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large
  • 1 Whisk for dressing

Ingredients
  

Salad

  • 1 1/2 cups pearl couscous
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1/4 cup black olives sliced

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pearl couscous and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  • While the couscous is cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion. Slice the olives and crumble the feta cheese.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled couscous, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and feta cheese.
  • Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
  • Stir the salad before serving, adjusting seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • The salad can be made a day in advance. Add fresh herbs or additional dressing just before serving for enhanced flavor.

Notes

Pro Tips: For best flavor, let the salad sit for an hour before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions: Swap feta for goat cheese or omit for vegan.
How to Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Storage & Freshness: Keep in airtight container for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare ingredients separately and combine before serving.
Keyword cold pearl couscous salad, Mediterranean couscous salad, summer couscous recipes