Cucumber Couscous Salad ~

Pearled couscous salad with crisp cucumber, fresh dill, and tangy feta tossed in zesty Italian dressing.

Serve with Caprese Burgers or Baked Falafel.

Table of Contents

Easy Couscous Salad Recipe

I like this light salad for its bright flavors that pair well with a variety of cuisines, including Mediterranean and Mexican dishes, and even classic American barbecue.

With only 5 ingredients, this pasta salad is quick and easy to prepare. It’s an excellent option for a simple salad lunch or a side dish and is perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have a healthy, delicious option ready to go throughout the week.

Ingredients for Cucumber Couscous Salad

You will need the following:

1 cup Israeli couscous, uncooked
1/2 cup Italian salad dressing
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
2 cups English cucumber, quartered
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Ingredient Notes

Israeli Couscous – Also known as pearled couscous, this ingredient provides a satisfying, chewy texture that elevates the simplicity of this salad. Its larger size compared to regular couscous ensures it holds up well to the other salad ingredients without getting mushy.
Italian Salad Dressing – An olive oil-based dressing is ideal for this recipe. It adds a tangy, zesty flavor that complements the freshness of the cucumbers and the creaminess of the feta.
Fresh Dill – Dill imparts a distinct, aromatic flavor that brightens up the salad. Its slightly sweet, grassy notes make it a perfect herb for salads, especially those with cucumber.
English Cucumber – English cucumbers are preferred for their thin skin and minimal seeds, making them perfect for salads. They are less watery than regular cucumbers, which helps maintain the salad’s texture. Persian cucumbers can also be used as a substitute.
Feta Cheese – Feta adds a tangy, creamy element to the salad. Both regular and vegan feta work well in this recipe.

How to Make Cucumber Couscous Salad

STEP ONE: Cook the couscous. In a medium saucepan, cook the Israeli couscous according to the package directions. Once cooked, rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the couscous. Drain well, then transfer to a large bowl and set aside.

STEP TWO: Prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian salad dressing and chopped dill.

STEP THREE: Combine ingredients. Pour the dressing over the cooked couscous and toss to coat. Stir in the quartered cucumber slices, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

STEP FOUR: Add the cheese. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad, gently mixing to incorporate.

STEP FIVE: Chill and serve. Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour until chilled. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Optional Add-Ins

Customize your Cucumber Couscous Salad by adding one or more of the following:

Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp, tangy bite that contrasts nicely with the mellow flavors of the cucumber and couscous.
Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered, add a burst of color and sweetness to the salad.
Lemon: A little bit of lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving adds a bright, citrusy note that enhances all the other flavors.
Olives – Make it a Mediterranean couscous salad with halved black or kalamata olives.
Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or fresh mint can be added for additional freshness and complexity.

FAQ for Cucumber Couscous Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep. It can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious the next day.
How long will the salad last in the refrigerator? Stored in an airtight container, this salad will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to store it longer, you may want to add the cucumbers just before serving to keep them crisp.
Can I use a different type of couscous? While Israeli (pearled) couscous is recommended for its texture, you can use regular couscous or even quinoa if you prefer. Just be aware that the texture will be different.
What can I serve with this salad? This Israeli couscous salad pairs especially well with grilled tofu. It’s also great as a side dish for picnics, barbecues, or potlucks.
Can I make this salad vegan? Absolutely! Simply use a vegan feta cheese (I use Violife brand) or omit the cheese entirely. The salad will still be flavorful and satisfying.

Storage

Store any leftover Cucumber Couscous Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within three days to ensure the cucumbers remain crisp and the flavors stay fresh.

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