Healthy Lunch Mediterranean Couscous

Name: Healthy Lunch Mediterranean Couscous
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup black olives, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Light Planning

I love preparing this Healthy Lunch Mediterranean Couscous because it's a vibrant and nutritious dish packed with fresh flavors. Whether it's for a satisfying lunch or a refreshing dinner, this recipe is both versatile and easy to whip up. The blend of couscous, colorful vegetables, and zesty dressing brings a delightful taste of the Mediterranean into my kitchen. I always feel energized and satisfied after enjoying this meal, making it a staple in my weekly menu.

Created by

Blythe Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:54:36.723Z

When I first tried making Mediterranean couscous, I was surprised at how simple yet delicious it turned out. I experimented by adding different vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and olives, each bringing their unique flavor to the dish. The key to a fantastic couscous lies in letting it steam properly; it absorbs all the added flavors from the dressing and the fresh ingredients that you mix in.

One of my favorite tips is to use a quality olive oil and fresh lemon juice for the dressing, as it brightens the flavors beautifully. I often adjust the seasoning according to my taste, incorporating fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This dish not only tastes amazing, but it also looks beautiful, making it great for serving to family and friends!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant flavors that awaken your senses
Quick and easy preparation for busy weekdays
Healthy ingredients that fuel your day

Understanding the Ingredients

The base of this dish, couscous, is a type of pasta made from semolina flour. It cooks quickly, soaking up flavors from the vegetable broth, which enhances its taste significantly. Make sure to use a good quality broth for the best results; homemade is ideal but store-bought works well too. You can substitute couscous with quinoa for a gluten-free alternative, but keep in mind that quinoa requires a different cooking method and ratio of water to grains.

The fresh vegetables in this Mediterranean Couscous contribute not only vibrant colors but also essential nutrients. Cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, while cucumbers add a refreshing crunch. Red onion provides a sharp bite, balancing the dish's flavors. If you're unable to find these vegetables, feel free to swap in seasonal produce—like bell peppers for added sweetness—ensuring the dish remains a delightful mix of textures and tastes.

Preparation Tips

When preparing the couscous, it’s crucial to let it steam covered for the full 5 minutes. This method ensures the grains are fluffy and prevent clumping, a common issue if undercooked or over-stirred. Use a fork to gently fluff it, which adds air and helps maintain its light texture. If you find your couscous too dry post-cooking, just drizzle a bit more broth or olive oil to revive it without losing flavor.

For the dressing, whisk until it’s glossy and emulsified. This step is vital as it allows the oil and lemon juice to blend, ensuring an even distribution of flavor throughout the salad. If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or tahini to richen the mix while still keeping it healthy. Adjust the salt and pepper after tossing—seasoning should be balanced, especially with feta's saltiness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make the Healthy Lunch Mediterranean Couscous:

Ingredients

1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Healthy Lunch Mediterranean Couscous:

Prepare the Couscous

In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in the couscous. Cover and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork afterward.

Mix the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese. Once the couscous is ready and cooled slightly, add it to the salad.

Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the couscous salad and toss gently to combine everything well.

Garnish and Serve

Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve immediately, or chill it in the refrigerator for an hour to enhance the flavors.

Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean couscous as is, or pair it with grilled chicken or fish!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Quinoa or orzo can be great substitutions for couscous.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Healthy Lunch Mediterranean Couscous can be prepped a day in advance, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess in the vegetables.

If you have leftovers, they can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth to help restore moisture. Alternatively, enjoy it cold as a refreshing salad, perfect for those warm days when you need a quick and nourishing bite.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve the couscous alongside grilled chicken or fish, which pairs beautifully with its fresh flavors. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, add chickpeas for extra protein and heartiness without compromising the Mediterranean vibe. If you want to make it a more vibrant centerpiece, try layering the couscous inside a halved avocado, creating a visually striking and nutritious dish.

Garnishing is essential for presentation and flavor; a sprinkle of fresh parsley really elevates the dish. If you want to get more creative, try adding toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for an added crunch. You can also experiment with herbs like fresh basil or mint, which harmonize wonderfully with the core flavors of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! It can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

→ Is couscous gluten-free?

Traditional couscous is made from wheat, but you can use gluten-free couscous or quinoa for a gluten-free option.

→ What can I use instead of feta cheese?

You could substitute feta with goat cheese, or omit it for a dairy-free option.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp would work wonderfully in this salad.