Brighten your table with Couscous Tabbouleh Salad Mint, a vibrant Healthy Side Dish packed with fresh parsley, mint, juicy tomatoes, and fluffy couscous, all tied together with zesty lemon. Ready in just 15 minutes with no stovetop cooking, this refreshing salad is perfect for quick lunches, picnics, or meal prep. Enjoy the burst of flavor in every bite of Couscous Tabbouleh Salad Mint, a colorful dish that stays fresh for days.
Why You’ll Love Couscous Tabbouleh Salad Mint
This Couscous Tabbouleh Salad Mint is a standout Healthy Side Dish:
- No-Cook Prep: Just add boiling water to couscous; done in 5 minutes.
- Fresh Flavors: Mint and parsley bring a vibrant, herby lift.
- Meal Prep Star: Keeps well for 3–4 days, ideal for busy weeks.
- Customizable: Adapt with your favorite veggies or grains.
- Nutrient-Packed: Full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- I make this for summer barbecues, and it’s always the ultimate Healthy Side Dish!
Ingredients for Couscous Tabbouleh Salad Mint
Here’s what you’ll need for Couscous Tabbouleh Salad Mint (serves 4–6):
- 1 cup Moroccan couscous
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- 1 cup boiling water or vegetable stock
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (about 2 medium)
- 1 cup diced cucumber (Persian or English)
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion
- ½ cup chopped fresh mint leaves
- ½ cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
- ¼ cup raisins (optional)
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Ingredient Tips:
- Couscous: Small-grain Moroccan couscous ensures a light texture.
- Herbs: Fresh mint and parsley are key; chop finely for balance.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed adds the best zing.
- Turmeric: Optional for color; pair with pepper for flavor.
- Equipment: Large bowl, fork, cutting board, knife.
Directions for Couscous Tabbouleh Salad Mint
Let’s whip up this fresh Couscous Tabbouleh Salad Mint!
Prepare Couscous
In a large bowl, I combine 1 cup couscous, ½ tsp turmeric, and ½ tsp salt. I pour in 1 cup boiling water or stock, stirring with a fork to moisten evenly. I cover and let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff gently with a fork.
Add Oil and Cool
I drizzle 2 tbsp olive oil over the couscous, stirring to keep it fluffy and prevent clumping. I let it cool to room temperature while prepping other ingredients.
Chop and Mix
I finely dice 1 cup tomatoes, 1 cup cucumber, and ¼ cup red onion, and chop ½ cup each of mint and parsley. I add these, ¼ cup raisins (if using), and 2 tbsp lemon juice to the cooled couscous.
Season and Toss
I toss everything gently, seasoning with ¼ tsp black pepper and adjusting salt, lemon juice, or oil to taste for a zesty Couscous Tabbouleh Salad Mint.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
- Calories: ~180 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings)
- Macros per Serving: 25g carbs, 4g protein, 6g fat, 3g fiber
Variations for Couscous Tabbouleh Salad Mint
Try these twists on Couscous Tabbouleh Salad Mint:
- Grain Swap: Use pearl couscous, bulgur, or quinoa (cook per package).
- Herb Mix: Add chives or cilantro for a different flavor.
- Fruit Swap: Replace raisins with dried apricots or cranberries.
- Protein Boost: Toss in 1 cup drained chickpeas or grilled tofu.
- Salty Kick: Add ¼ cup chopped olives or feta for extra depth.
Storage
I store Couscous Tabbouleh Salad Mint in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days, keeping veggies crisp and herbs bright. For best flavor, I eat within 2 days. I avoid freezing to preserve texture but refresh leftovers with a splash of lemon juice before serving.
Serving Ideas
Make your Couscous Tabbouleh Salad Mint a vibrant Healthy Side Dish:
- Classic: Serve as a Healthy Side Dish with falafel or grilled chicken.
- Lunch: Pair with hummus and pita for a quick meal.
- One-Bowl: Add chickpeas for a filling vegetarian dish.
- Garnish: Sprinkle extra mint or parsley for a fresh look.
- Picnic: Pack in a cooler for outdoor gatherings with roasted fish.
FAQs :
-
Can I use a different grain instead of couscous?
Yes, you can substitute Moroccan couscous with pearl couscous, whole wheat couscous, or traditional bulgur. Just follow package directions for preparation.How do I reduce the sharpness of raw onion?
To mellow the flavor, chop the onion and soak it in lemon juice for a few minutes while preparing other ingredients.Is the turmeric essential in this salad?
Turmeric is optional for color and subtle flavor, but you can omit it. If using, pair with black pepper for enhanced taste.How long does this salad stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors improve with time, but best within 2 days.What proteins pair well with this dish?
Chickpeas or a vegan chick’n work well for a plant-based option. Grilled chicken or fish are great additions, too.Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, it’s ideal for meal prep. Refrigerate for a few hours before serving to let the flavors meld together.More Summer Salad Recipes You’ll Love
Conclusion
Couscous Tabbouleh Salad Mint is a fresh, zesty Healthy Side Dish that brings vibrant herbs, juicy veggies, and fluffy couscous to your plate in just 15 minutes. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or quick meals, it’s endlessly customizable and full of flavor. Toss together a Couscous Tabbouleh Salad Mint today and enjoy a taste of summer!
Couscous Tabbouleh Mint Salad
Ingredients
- 1½ cups Moroccan couscous
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric optional
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1½ cups boiling water or vegetable stock
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tomatoes finely diced
- 1 cucumber finely diced
- ½ onion finely diced
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves stems discarded and very finely minced
- 2 cups fresh parsley leaves stems discarded and very finely minced
- ½ cup raisins optional
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice from ½ lemon, or more to taste
Instructions
- Place the couscous in a large bowl. Add turmeric and salt, then slowly pour the boiling water or vegetable stock while mixing with a fork. Let it rest for 3-5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Adjust seasoning with more salt, or add more hot water if the couscous is not soft enough.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil to the couscous, stir to prevent clumps, and allow it to cool to room temperature while preparing the other ingredients.
- Combine the vegetables, herbs, raisins (if using), and lemon juice with the cooked couscous. Adjust the flavor with additional salt, lemon juice, or olive oil, if needed.
- Enjoy the salad immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours for the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a less pungent onion flavor, mix it with lemon juice and let it sit while preparing other ingredients. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Raisins are optional and can be substituted with olives or omitted entirely.
- Consider adding vegan proteins such as chickpeas, vegan chick'n, or even grilled chicken or fish for a non-vegan option.
- Store in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days; best enjoyed within the first 2 days.
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