Are you craving a quick, refreshing, and incredibly delicious side dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny Mediterranean coast? Look no further than this Simple Lemon Couscous Salad – a vibrant, light, and flavor-packed recipe that takes just 15 minutes to prepare! Perfect for busy home cooks, health-conscious food lovers, and anyone seeking a burst of fresh, tangy goodness in their meal.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
Instructions
- Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat.
- Remove the boiling water from heat and stir in the couscous. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the water completely.
- After 5 minutes, use a fork to fluff the couscous, breaking up any clumps and creating a light, fluffy texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Gently mix to ensure even coating and seasoning.
- Add the finely chopped parsley and diced cucumber to the couscous mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together to distribute evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, lemon juice, or olive oil as needed to balance the flavors.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is optional but recommended.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
- Water Temperature Matters: Use boiling water and remove from heat immediately when adding couscous to ensure perfect texture.
- Fluffing is Key: Always use a fork to fluff your couscous, which prevents clumping and creates a light, airy consistency.
- Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and crisp, finely chopped parsley for maximum flavor.
- Marinating Magic: While optional, letting the salad rest in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Customization Options: Feel free to add diced tomatoes, feta cheese, or toasted pine nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Serve Temperature Flexibility: This salad is delicious chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick meals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
