Quick couscous tabouli salad

Quick couscous tabouli salad features nutty couscous combined with fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty dressing. It’s a light, nutritious dish perfect for a quick meal or side.

18 Nov 2025
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 30 min

Ingredients:

1 cup couscous
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves
2 cherry tomatoes
1 cup spearmint
1 cup fresh parsley
1 cup scallions
2 tbsp lemon juice
salt & pepper to taste
Quick couscous tabouli salad

Quick couscous tabouli salad is a refreshing and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for a light lunch or a side dish. It combines the nutty flavor of couscous with the fresh taste of herbs and vegetables, making it a nutritious and flavorful option that's ready in minutes.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Couscous:
- Place the couscous in a large heatproof bowl.
- Boil 1 cup of water (or follow the package instructions for the correct couscous-to-water ratio). Once boiling, pour the water over the couscous, cover the bowl with a plate or plastic wrap, and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the water is absorbed.
- Once the couscous has absorbed all the water, fluff it with a fork to break up any clumps.
2. Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs:
- While the couscous is soaking, mince the garlic cloves.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Finely chop the spearmint and parsley.
- Slice the scallions (white and green parts).
3. Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked couscous, minced garlic, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped spearmint, parsley, and sliced scallions.
- Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture.
4. Season and Toss:
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss everything together until evenly mixed and the couscous is well-coated with the oil and lemon juice.
5. Serve:
- Your quick couscous tabouli salad is now ready to be served. It can be enjoyed immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for an hour to let the flavors meld together.

This quick couscous tabouli salad is a versatile and healthy dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side to your favorite proteins. It’s packed with fresh herbs and bursting with flavor, making it a great addition to any meal. Enjoy its refreshing taste and wholesome ingredients!

Quick couscous tabouli salad FAQ:

What is the cooking time for couscous?

Couscous typically takes about 5 minutes to prepare. Once boiling water is poured over it, cover and let it sit until the water is absorbed.

Can I make substitutions for the herbs?

Yes, you can substitute spearmint with mint or basil, and parsley can be replaced with cilantro if desired. However, keep in mind that this will change the flavor profile.

How should I store any leftovers of the salad?

Leftover couscous tabouli salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best consumed fresh, but the flavors can develop further when chilled.

What size bowl should I use for mixing the salad?

Use a large mixing bowl to combine all the ingredients easily. This allows enough space for tossing without spilling.

How can I tell if the couscous is done?

The couscous is done when all the water is absorbed and it is fluffy. If there’s any water left, let it sit for an additional minute or two, then fluff with a fork.

Tips:

- Use a fork to fluff the couscous after it is cooked to maintain its light and airy texture.

- Chop the herbs finely to ensure a uniform texture that blends well with the couscous.

- For a more pronounced flavor, allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.

- Feel free to add other fresh vegetables such as cucumber or bell pepper to enhance the salad.

- If you prefer a stronger garlic taste, mince the garlic cloves rather than leaving them whole.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 80kcal
Protein 2.92g
Carbohydrates 16g
Fiber 1.71g
Sugar 1.25g
Fat 7g

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