This Couscous Tabbouleh is a bright and refreshing twist on the classic Levantine salad. Made with fluffy couscous instead of bulgur, it’s tossed with chopped parsley, mint, cucumbers, tomatoes, scallions, and dressed in a zesty lemon-olive oil vinaigrette. It’s perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or picnic staple. Ready in under 20 minutes, this herb-forward salad is vegan, vibrant, and incredibly easy to make.
Yields: 6-8 servings
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Why You’ll Love This
✔ Lighter than traditional tabbouleh
✔ 5-ingredient dressing with zesty lemon flavor
✔ Naturally gluten-free option
Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked couscous
- 1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, plus more to taste
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh mint
- 1 cup finely diced tomatoes (about 2 medium)
- 1/2 cup finely diced cucumber (about 1/2 medium)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Equipment:
- Medium bowl with a lid
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Couscous
- Place the uncooked couscous in a medium bowl. Pour the boiling water or vegetable broth over the couscous. Stir briefly, then cover the bowl with a lid and let it sit for 5-7 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the couscous with a fork.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, chopped parsley, chopped mint, diced tomatoes, diced cucumber, and chopped red onion.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
- Pour the prepared dressing over the couscous and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are well coated.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the tabbouleh for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, or pepper if needed. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil before serving, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories 220
- Protein 5g
- Fiber 3g
- Vitamin C 40% DV
- (With whole wheat couscous)
Pro Tips
✅ Fluffier couscous: Toast dry couscous in 1 tsp oil before adding water
✅ No soggy salad: Dress just before serving
✅ Extra flavor: Add ½ tsp cumin to dressing
Kid-Friendly Adaptations
- Soak onions in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor
- Skip mint if kids dislike it
- Serve deconstructed as a “build-your-own” bowl
Enjoy your delicious Couscous Tabbouleh!
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