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To make the Lemon Herb Couscous Salad, you need fresh and vibrant ingredients. Here’s what you’ll want to gather: - 1 cup couscous - 1 medium cucumber, diced - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 bell pepper (any color), diced - ½ red onion, finely chopped - 1 cup parsley, finely chopped - ½ cup fresh mint, finely chopped Each of these ingredients brings its own flavor and texture. The couscous acts as a fluffy base, while the veggies add crunch and color. Fresh herbs brighten the dish with their aroma. The dressing adds a zesty kick to the salad. You’ll need: - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 2 tablespoons lemon juice - Zest of 1 lemon - Salt and pepper to taste This dressing is simple yet full of flavor. The lemon juice and zest enhance the fresh taste of the salad. Olive oil adds richness, while salt and pepper balance everything out. For an extra touch, consider adding: - Feta cheese for garnish Feta cheese adds creaminess and a salty bite. It pairs well with the fresh flavors of the salad. You can sprinkle it on top before serving for a beautiful finish. Make sure to check the full recipe for detailed instructions on how to combine these fresh ingredients into a delightful meal. First, I bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Once it boils, I add the couscous and remove the pot from heat. I cover it and let it sit for about five minutes. This allows the couscous to absorb the broth fully. Next, I dice the cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper. I also finely chop the red onion, parsley, and mint. These fresh veggies add vibrant colors and flavors to the salad. In a small bowl, I whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. I season the mix with salt and pepper. This dressing brings a bright, zesty flavor to the salad. After fluffing the couscous with a fork and letting it cool slightly, I mix the vegetables and couscous in a large bowl. I pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together. I taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or lemon juice if needed. If I want to add a creamy touch, I crumble feta cheese on top before serving. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions. To make your Lemon Herb Couscous Salad truly shine, adjust the seasoning. I like to add a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, or a splash of lemon juice. This helps balance the flavors. Taste as you go. This salad is best served fresh. Enjoy it right after making for the best taste. Serving is key! You can use a large bowl for a family-style dish. For a fancier look, plate individual portions. Add a lemon wedge or some fresh herbs on top. This makes the salad look bright and inviting. To ensure your couscous is fluffy, follow a few steps. When you add couscous to the boiling broth, cover the pot. Let it sit for about five minutes. After that, fluff it with a fork. This keeps the grains separate. When mixing, be gentle. You want everything combined without mushing the veggies. {{image_2}} You can boost the Lemon Herb Couscous Salad by adding proteins. Chicken, grilled or roasted, makes a great choice. It adds flavor and makes the dish heartier. For a vegetarian option, try chickpeas. They add protein and a nice texture. You can also use shrimp or tofu for more variety. Each protein brings a unique taste and makes the salad filling. Using seasonal vegetables can change the salad's look and flavor. In the summer, add fresh corn or zucchini. In the fall, try roasted butternut squash or Brussels sprouts. These veggies add color and nutrients. You can also mix in some arugula or spinach for added greens. Seasonal veggies keep the salad fresh and exciting throughout the year. Changing the dressing can also change the salad's taste. Try a yogurt-based dressing for creaminess. You can mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice and garlic. Another option is a balsamic vinaigrette. It adds a sweet, tangy flavor that complements the salad. You can even make a spicy dressing with chili flakes for a kick. Each dressing gives a new twist, making this salad versatile. To store your Lemon Herb Couscous Salad, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents odors from other foods in the fridge. If you have extra dressing, keep it separate until you serve. This helps maintain the salad's crunchiness. Your salad will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. After that, the veggies might lose their crispness. If you notice any signs of spoilage, it’s best to toss it out. Always check for any off smells or changes in color. I don’t recommend freezing couscous salad. Freezing can change the texture of the vegetables. If you want to save it, try freezing the dressing separately. You can then enjoy a fresh salad later by mixing the thawed dressing with fresh veggies and couscous. Yes, you can use quinoa! Quinoa is a great substitute for couscous. It adds more protein and fiber. Quinoa has a nutty flavor that pairs well with lemon and herbs. It is also gluten-free, making it a good choice for those with dietary needs. Just rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove any bitterness. Use the same liquid-to-grain ratio as couscous for the best results. Let the couscous sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the couscous to absorb all the vegetable broth. It also helps the grains to become fluffy. Fluffing with a fork after resting is key. This prevents clumping and makes the salad light and airy. Waiting before mixing the couscous with other ingredients keeps flavors fresh. No, traditional couscous is not gluten-free. However, you can easily make it gluten-free. Simply swap couscous for quinoa or rice. Both options provide a similar texture and taste. Be sure to check labels for gluten in any packaged items. Using gluten-free grains keeps the salad delicious and inclusive for everyone. This salad pairs well with many main dishes. Try serving it with grilled chicken or fish for a light meal. It also complements roasted vegetables perfectly. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside falafel or stuffed peppers. You can even enjoy it with a simple soup. The fresh flavors of the salad will enhance any dish. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide. This article covers the vibrant Lemon Herb Couscous Salad, highlighting fresh ingredients and simple steps. You learned how to cook fluffy couscous and prepare a delicious dressing with olive oil and lemon. We discussed tips to enhance flavors and presented options for adding proteins or seasonal veggies. Remember to store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. This salad is versatile, easy, and perfect for any meal. Enjoying healthy, tasty food can be simple and fun!

Lemon Herb Couscous Salad

Discover the refreshing flavors of Lemon Herb Couscous Salad! This vibrant dish combines fluffy couscous with crunchy veggies like cucumber and bell peppers, and is dressed in zesty lemon and olive oil. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side at your next gathering, this recipe is quick and easy, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. Click through for the complete recipe and elevate your salad game today!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup couscous

1 ¼ cups vegetable broth

1 medium cucumber, diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

½ red onion, finely chopped

1 cup parsley, finely chopped

½ cup fresh mint, finely chopped

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons lemon juice

Zest of 1 lemon

Salt and pepper to taste

Feta cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in the couscous. Cover the pot and let it sit for about 5 minutes or until the couscous has absorbed the broth.

    Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains and allow it to cool slightly.

      In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced bell pepper, chopped red onion, parsley, and mint.

        In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper until emulsified.

          Add the cooled couscous to the bowl with the vegetables and pour the dressing over the top. Gently toss everything together until well mixed.

            Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.

              If using, crumble feta cheese over the top before serving.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in a large bowl or plate it in individual portions. Garnish with extra parsley or mint leaves and a lemon wedge on the side for added freshness.