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    "home" » Recipes » SALAD

    The Best Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Salad

    Published: Jul 11, 2022 · Modified: Aug 28, 2023 by Sophie Viau

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    Sometimes it's hard to find a good lunch option that you can feel good about, this Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Salad full of fresh veggies has all your favorite flavors without the guilt. It's easy to make and takes less than 40 minutes! Give it a try today.

    This Mediterranean couscous salad recipe with fresh ingredients makes a great lunch and can be served with a variety of protein options. This delicious salad is a light meal and will fuel your body to take on the rest of your day!

    It's the ideal recipe for Sunday meal prep, if you are not into meal prep, next time you make this recipe just double it so that you have enough to bring to lunch the next day. It's also a great substitute for pasta salad.

    Israeli couscous is made up of small, round granules that are a little bit like pasta. 2-3 times larger than couscous. Pearl, or Israeli, couscous is roasted rather than dried, giving it a nutty flavor and a thick, chewy texture. You can find pearl couscous in most grocery stores.

    Pearl couscous is a fun and easy addition to any recipe. You can use this versatile grain in salads, soups, or even as the main dish!

    Ingredients

    All the Ingredients you need to make this recipe: Pearl couscous, Feta, Oil, Vinegar, olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, oregano, basil.

    kalamata olive: Kalamata olives are a type of olive that is native to the Kalamata region in Greece. These olives are large and black with a smooth, fleshy texture. They have a salty, slightly tangy flavor with hints of bitterness. Kalamata olives are often used in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.

    Cherry Tomato: Cherry tomatoes are a type of small, round tomato that is typically red in color. These tomatoes are sweet and juicy with a thin skin. Cherry tomatoes can be eaten raw or used in cooked dishes.

    Salty feta cheese: Feta is a type of cheese that is made from sheep's milk or goat's milk. It is a white cheese with a crumbly texture. Feta has a tangy, salty flavor and is often used in salads or as a topping on pizzas or other dishes.

    Pearl Couscous: Pearl couscous is a type of pasta made from durum wheat semolina regularly call semolina flour. It is similar in appearance to regular couscous, but it is slightly larger and has a more chewy texture. Pearl couscous can be used in salads or as a side dish. It is also sometimes used as a replacement for rice or other grains. These couscous cooks in about 20 minutes.

    Cucumber: Use fresh crisp cucumber. English cucumbers are a type of cucumber that is long and slender with smooth, dark green skin. These cucumbers have a mild flavor and are often used in salads or as a garnish. English cucumbers can be found in most grocery stores.

    Red Wine Vinegar: Red wine vinegar is made from red wine that has been allowed to oxidize. This vinegar has a tart, acidic flavor with notes of the wine. It is often used in salad dressings or as a marinade for meats.

    Oregano: Oregano is a type of herb that is related to mint. It has a pungent, earthy flavor and is often used in Italian and Greek cuisine. Oregano can be used fresh or dried. It is often used to flavor meats, soups, and sauces.

    See the recipe card below for the quantities

    Instructions

    In a saucepan, bring a large amount of water to a boil. Then add 2 cups of couscous and simmer for 20 minutes.

    Bowl with all the Ingredients ready to be mixed

    Add all of the ingredients to a large bowl and mix to combine everything.

    Bowl with Mixed Ingredients

    Substitutions and Variations

    • Use Black olives in place of the Kalamata olives.
    • Substitute Feta cheese for crumbled goat cheese.
    • Add grilled chicken or garbanzo beans to make it a main dish.
    • Try different types of vinegar
    • Add 1 small red onion and bell peppers to add more colors
    • Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice just before serving

    Storage

    You can store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Pearl couscous will continue to absorb dressing, so you may need to add more before serving if it has been stored for a long period of time.

    Can I freeze the pearl couscous salad?

    No, we do not recommend freezing this salad as the Pearl couscous will become mushy when thawed.

    Tip

    • Use a large bowl to mix everything together.
    • You can substitute pearl couscous for regular couscous.
    • Serve cold or at room temperature.
    • Add more dressing if needed before serving.
    • Store in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
    • Do not freeze the salad.
    • Pearl couscous will continue to absorb dressing, so you may need to add more before serving if it has been stored for a long period of time.

    FAQ'S

    What is the ratio of water to pearl couscous?

    To prepare Israeli or pearl couscous, you'll need about 1 ¼ cups of water or vegetable broth for every 1 cup of dry grain

    Is pearl couscous pasta?

    Israeli couscous—also called, giant couscous, and pearl couscous—is often thought of as a whole grain, but it's actually a type of pasta made of semolina flour and water.

    Is pearl couscous gluten free?

    No, couscous is not gluten-free. Despite its rice-like appearance, couscous is made from semolina, which is a granule of durum wheat.

    What can I serve with the couscous salad?

    The couscous salad can be served as a side dish or main course. It pairs well with grilled meats or vegetables. You could also serve it with a light soup or salad.

    What is the taste and texture of the pearl couscous?

    The pearl couscous has a chewy texture and slightly nutty flavor. It is similar in appearance to regular couscous, but it is slightly larger and has a more chewy texture. Pearl couscous can be used in salads or as a side dish. It is also sometimes used as a replacement for rice or other grains.

    More Salad Recipes

    Basmati Rice Salad with Edamame

    cheese tortellini pasta salad

    Healthy Kale Salad

    Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Salad

    Sophie Viau
    A good lunch option that you can feel good about, this Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Salad has all your favorite flavors without the guilt. It's easy to make and takes less than 40 minutes!
    5 from 23 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 15 minutes mins
    Cook Time 20 minutes mins
    Total Time 35 minutes mins
    Course Salad
    Cuisine Mediterranean
    Servings 6
    Calories 279 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 cups pearl couscous uncooked
    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes cut in half
    • ½ English cucumber
    • ½ cup feta crumbled
    • ¼ cup kalamata olive
    • ⅓ cup olive oil
    • ¼ cup red wine vinegar
    • 2 teaspoon oregano
    • ⅓ cup fresh basil
    • Salt and Pepper to taste

    Instructions
     

    • In a saucepan, bring a large amount of water to a boil. Then add 2 cups of couscous and simmer for 20- 25 minutes.
    • Drain and rinse under cold water.Allow this mixture to cool before adding the ingredients
    • Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and chop the cucumber in small cubes.
    • Finely chop the kalamata olives.
    • Crumble the feta with your hand or chop it in small cubes with a knife.
    • Add all of the ingredients in a large bowl and mix to combine everything.
    • Serve cold

    Video

    Notes

    • The salad can be kept for up to 4 days in an airtight container in the fridge.
    • These ingredients don't stand up well to freezing.
     
     

    Nutrition

    Calories: 279kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 7gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 177mgPotassium: 153mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 175IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 72mgIron: 1mg
    Tried this recipe?TAG Noble Veggies

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Rob Parrott

      March 06, 2022 at 6:53 pm

      5 stars
      Thank you. This is now one of my go to recipes’. I used a box of Trader Joe’s Israeli couscous, which had a little over 1-1/2 cups couscous, and followed its instructions to cook it. I replaced the tomatoes with a red bell pepper, diced in 1/4-3/8” cubes, cuz that’s what I had in the fridge, and a couple forkfuls of capers that were screaming at me to add them in. Sooooo delicious! I will bring this to the next work potluck!

      Reply
      • Sophie

        March 09, 2022 at 7:52 am

        Thank you Rob! I'm glad you liked it! It's always a good idea to use what you have in the fridge, and capers are soooooo good 🙂

        Reply
    2. Elizabeth

      July 27, 2023 at 3:26 pm

      5 stars
      This recipe has all of my favorite Mediterranean flavors in one dish! I just love the summery flavors of the tomato and basil, the saltiness of the olives and feta, and the refreshing taste of the cucumbers. Excellent recipe.

      Reply
      • Sophie Viau

        July 29, 2023 at 8:46 am

        I'm so glad to hear that you enjoyed the Mediterranean flavors in this recipe! The combination of tomatoes, basil, olives, feta, and cucumbers truly brings out the essence of Mediterranean cuisine and creates a refreshing and delightful dish.

        Reply
    3. Ali

      July 27, 2023 at 3:51 pm

      5 stars
      I had some extra pearl couscous lying around and used it to make this salad — it was so tasty!! Such a great healthy side dish for lunch.

      Reply
      • Sophie Viau

        July 29, 2023 at 8:47 am

        Hey Ali,

        It's always satisfying to put leftover ingredients to good use and create something delicious

        Reply
    4. Gina

      July 27, 2023 at 3:53 pm

      5 stars
      The second I saw this I knew this recipe was for me! It was absolutely fantastic! I will be making this over and over again!

      Reply
      • Sophie Viau

        July 29, 2023 at 8:48 am

        Hey Gina,

        I'm so glad to hear that you loved the recipe! It's always wonderful to know when someone finds a recipe that they'll be making repeatedly

        Reply
    5. Sara Welch

      July 27, 2023 at 3:56 pm

      5 stars
      This was everything a gourmet salad should be, and then some! Light, fresh and delicious; easily, a new favorite dish!

      Reply
      • Sophie Viau

        July 29, 2023 at 8:49 am

        Hey Sara!

        I'm thrilled to hear that the salad exceeded your expectations and became a new favorite for you!

        Reply
    6. Marta

      August 01, 2023 at 10:06 am

      5 stars
      The vinaigrette on this pearl couscous salad is good enough to drink on its own. I loved how easy this Mediterranean salad came together and how it compliments so many proteins.

      Reply
      • Sophie Viau

        August 05, 2023 at 11:35 am

        Hi Marta,

        I'm delighted to hear that you loved the vinaigrette on the pearl couscous salad! The right dressing can truly elevate a dish, and it's fantastic that it worked so well with this Mediterranean salad

        Reply
    7. Mikayla

      August 01, 2023 at 10:37 pm

      5 stars
      I whipped this up as a side dish and ended up eating only the salad for my dinner, I really loved it!

      Reply
      • Sophie Viau

        August 05, 2023 at 11:38 am

        That's wonderful to hear! I'm glad you enjoyed the salad so much that it became your main dinner.

        Reply
    8. Bernice

      August 02, 2023 at 3:53 pm

      This couscous salad is the perfect salad to take to any summer gathering. I made a huge batch for the weekend and am looking forward to having extra for weekday lunches.

      Reply
      • Sophie Viau

        August 05, 2023 at 11:39 am

        Absolutely! Couscous salad is a great choice for summer gatherings, and it's so versatile and easy to make in large batches. Having leftovers for weekday lunches is a bonus too

        Reply
    9. veenaazmanov

      August 03, 2023 at 12:11 pm

      5 stars
      Heathy for sure. All the veggie combination and flavorful herb, wine and oil give this couscous salad a unique and colorful look and taste. A Bowl of goodness.

      Reply
      • Sophie Viau

        August 05, 2023 at 11:40 am

        Indeed! This couscous salad offers a delightful combination of vegetables, herbs, wine, and oil that not only makes it a healthy option but also a feast for the eyes and taste buds

        Reply
    10. Veronika

      August 03, 2023 at 11:35 pm

      5 stars
      I love well this salad keeps in the fridge! I made it a couple of days ago and enjoyed it for lunch two days in a row. So good!

      Reply
      • Sophie Viau

        August 05, 2023 at 11:40 am

        I'm so glad to hear that you enjoyed the salad and that it kept well in the fridge for you! It's always a bonus when you can make a delicious dish that lasts for multiple meals

        Reply
    11. Tammy

      August 04, 2023 at 1:40 pm

      5 stars
      Super cool and refreshing. This is right up my alley! I love couscous...the cucumbers and tomatoes are a lovely addition tossed in. Perfect for summer!

      Reply
      • Sophie Viau

        August 05, 2023 at 11:41 am

        Absolutely! Couscous salads are perfect for summer – they're light, refreshing, and packed with fresh flavors. The combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs adds a delightful taste and texture to the dish. I'm thrilled that you enjoyed it!

        Reply
    12. Sharon

      August 04, 2023 at 5:31 pm

      5 stars
      I love easy salads just like that couscous salad. The pearls make for a hearty dish and the dressing it the perfect coating.

      Reply
      • Sophie Viau

        August 05, 2023 at 11:42 am

        I'm glad to hear that you enjoyed the couscous salad! The pearl couscous does add a nice heartiness to the dish, and the flavorful dressing brings everything together. Easy salads like this one are not only delicious but also versatile and convenient to prepare

        Reply
    13. Jacqueline Debono

      August 05, 2023 at 2:50 pm

      5 stars
      Made this lovely salad with Sardinian fregola which is very similar to pearl couscous. Super good!

      Reply
      • Sophie Viau

        August 11, 2023 at 9:19 pm

        Hi Jacqueline,

        Using Sardinian fregola in the salad is a wonderful idea! Fregola is a type of pasta that resembles pearl couscous and has a unique texture that works well in salads. I'm glad to hear that the salad turned out super good with this variation.

        Reply
    14. Kristina

      August 06, 2023 at 1:01 pm

      5 stars
      I make this for every family barbecue during the summer and everyone always raves about it. I've been making it for such a long time and it never disappoints!

      Reply
      • Sophie Viau

        August 11, 2023 at 9:21 pm

        Hi Kristina,

        It's wonderful to hear that this dish has become a staple at your family barbecues and is always a hit!

        Reply
    15. Madelyn

      August 06, 2023 at 1:02 pm

      5 stars
      This salad has such wonderful flavor and while it's hearty, it's light enough to feel good after eating it. Thanks for a great recipe!

      Reply
      • Sophie Viau

        August 11, 2023 at 9:21 pm

        Hey Madelyn,

        You're very welcome! I'm thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the salad and that it struck the perfect balance between hearty and light.

        Reply

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    Hi, I'm Sophie a recipe developer and food photographer. I created this blog to share quick and easy recipes for busy weekdays, there's something for everyone. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out—I would be thrilled to hear from you!

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