Get ready to transport your taste buds to the colorful streets of Morocco with this incredibly refreshing and easy-to-make Moroccan Couscous Salad! Packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich chickpeas, and a zesty lemon dressing, this salad is not just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that will revolutionize your lunch routine. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or someone looking to explore world cuisines, this recipe promises to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Moroccan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Couscous
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Chickpeas
- Bell peppers
- Cucumber
- Parsley
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Measure 1 cup of couscous and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Boil 1 cup of water with a pinch of salt and pour over the couscous. Cover the bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains and let it cool to room temperature.
- Dice the bell peppers and cucumber into small, uniform cubes.
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cold water.
- Finely chop fresh parsley leaves, discarding the thick stems.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- Add the diced vegetables, chickpeas, and chopped parsley to the cooled couscous.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Garnish with additional parsley and a drizzle of olive oil before serving chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor profile in your dressing.
- Allow the couscous to cool completely before mixing to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- For extra flavor, toast the couscous lightly in a dry pan before adding water.
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible—they make a significant difference in taste.
- Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or feta cheese.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of harissa or red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
