Looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish that transports your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean? Look no further than TJ's Couscous Feta Salad! This delightful recipe combines fluffy couscous with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and creamy feta cheese, all drizzled with a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for your next gathering, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Ready to impress your friends and family? Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover how simple it is to create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil over high heat.
- Remove the broth from heat and add the couscous. Stir quickly to combine, then cover the pan and let sit for 5 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the liquid completely.
- After 5 minutes, fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains and release steam. Transfer to a large mixing bowl and let cool to room temperature.
- While the couscous is cooling, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, and crumbled feta cheese to the cooled couscous.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light lunch.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Since this salad relies on fresh vegetables and feta cheese, opt for the best quality you can find. Organic produce and a good-quality feta can elevate the dish significantly.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or even avocado for a twist. This salad is versatile and can be tailored to your taste preferences.
- Let It Chill: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes not only enhances the flavors but also makes it a refreshing dish to serve on warm days.
- Perfect the Dressing: Adjust the olive oil and lemon juice ratio according to your preference for a richer or tangier dressing. A pinch of oregano or fresh herbs like parsley can also add an aromatic touch.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
