"The Ultimate Easy Couscous Salad Recipe for a Refreshing Summer Meal"

#### Easy Couscous Salad RecipeCouscous is a versatile and quick-cooking grain that makes for a delightful base in salads. This **easy couscous salad recipe……

#### Easy Couscous Salad Recipe

Couscous is a versatile and quick-cooking grain that makes for a delightful base in salads. This **easy couscous salad recipe** is perfect for those warm summer days when you want something light yet satisfying. It’s not only simple to prepare but also packed with fresh flavors and nutrients. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, preparing a picnic, or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this salad will surely impress.

#### Ingredients

To create the perfect easy couscous salad, you will need the following ingredients:

- **1 cup couscous**: The star of our salad, couscous is light and fluffy when cooked.

- **1 1/4 cups vegetable broth**: This adds flavor to the couscous; water can be used as a substitute.

- **1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved**: These add a burst of sweetness and color.

- **1 cucumber, diced**: For a refreshing crunch.

- **1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced**: Adds sweetness and vibrant color.

- **1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped**: For a bit of sharpness.

- **1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled**: This adds creaminess and tanginess.

- **1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped**: For a fresh herbaceous note.

- **Juice of 1 lemon**: Adds brightness and acidity.

- **3 tablespoons olive oil**: For richness and to help bring the flavors together.

- **Salt and pepper to taste**: Essential for seasoning.

#### Instructions

1. **Cook the Couscous**: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the couscous, remove from heat, cover, and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Once the couscous has absorbed the liquid, fluff it with a fork and let it cool.

2. **Prepare the Vegetables**: While the couscous is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

3. **Combine Ingredients**: Once the couscous is cool, add it to the bowl with the vegetables. Gently mix in the feta cheese and parsley.

4. **Dress the Salad**: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the couscous salad and toss everything together until well combined.

5. **Chill and Serve**: For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

#### Tips for Customization

The beauty of this **easy couscous salad recipe** is its versatility. Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some suggestions:

- **Add Protein**: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

- **Mix in Other Vegetables**: Zucchini, carrots, or spinach can be great additions.

- **Experiment with Herbs**: Fresh mint or basil can add a unique twist.

- **Add Nuts**: Toasted pine nuts or almonds can give a nice crunch.

#### Conclusion

This **easy couscous salad recipe** is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and flavors. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a dish that you can whip up in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Enjoy the refreshing taste of summer with this delightful salad, and don’t hesitate to make it your own!