Looking for a nutritious and flavorful dish to elevate your meal prep routine? This Healthy Couscous Salad Bowl with Lemon Dressing is a perfect choice. Packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich chickpeas, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, it’s a versatile meal that can be enjoyed warm or cold.
Why You’ll Love Healthy Couscous Salad Bowl
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Stays fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Nutritious: High in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins.
- Versatile: Serve as a main dish or a side.
Read: Top 10 Couscous Salad Recipes to Try This Year
Ingredients
- 1 cup Israeli (pearl) couscous
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Healthy Couscous Salad
- Cook the Couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring 1.5 cups of water to a boil. Add the couscous, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked couscous, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Read Also: Best Vegan Honey Mustard Salad Dressing
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Meal Prep Tips
- Storage: Divide the salad into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Serving: Enjoy cold or at room temperature. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for an extra zing.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for additional protein.
Affiliate Product Recommendations for Healthy Couscous Salad
Enhance your cooking experience with these recommended products:
- Glass Meal Prep Containers – Ideal for storing and reheating your salad.
- Citrus Juicer – Easily extract fresh lemon juice for your dressing.
- Large Salad Mixing Bowl – Perfect for combining all your ingredients.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular couscous instead of Israeli couscous?
Yes, you can substitute with regular couscous. However, Israeli couscous has a chewier texture that holds up better in salads.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Traditional couscous contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, use quinoa or gluten-free pasta.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
Conclusion
This Healthy Couscous Salad Bowl with Lemon Dressing is a delightful addition to your meal prep routine. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean all week long! You can also try Cowboy Caviar Couscous Salad & Greek Couscous Salad: Two Flavor-Packed Recipes.
