Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Feta and Edamame
This vibrant Mediterranean Couscous Salad is a delightful medley of flavors and textures, featuring fluffy couscous tossed with fresh cherry tomatoes, crisp green scallions, and protein-packed edamame. The creamy, crumbled feta cheese adds a delightful richness that perfectly balances the freshness of minced chili and herbs. Enhanced by the aromatic notes of cumin and coriander, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nourishing dish ideal for a light lunch or a satisfying side. With its colorful presentation and wholesome ingredients, this salad brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine right to your dining table.
6
Servings
300
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
couscous
1.5 (uncooked)
olive oil
2 (tablespoons, divided)
green chili pepper
1 (seeded and minced)
ground cumin
1 (teaspoon)
ground coriander
1 (teaspoon)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
frozen shelled edamame
1.5 (cups)
cherry tomatoes
3 (halved)
fresh mint or basil leaves
1 (cup, chopped)
scallion (green onions)
1 (bunch, sliced)
fresh lemon juice
1 (tablespoon)
feta cheese
0.67 (cup, crumbled)
black olives (kalamata)
as desired (for garnish)
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the couscous, half a tablespoon of olive oil, minced chili pepper, ground cumin, ground coriander, minced garlic, and frozen edamame.
2
Pour in 2 cups of boiling water, cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap, and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes or until the couscous has absorbed the water.
3
Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped mint or basil, sliced scallions, and fresh lemon juice. Toss them gently to combine.
4
Once the couscous has cooled, fluff it with a fork and carefully fold it into the bowl with the tomato mixture.
5
Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the combined salad, and gently mix to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
6
Add the crumbled feta cheese and toss gently to incorporate without breaking the cheese too much.
7
Garnish with black olives if desired, and season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
8
Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for an enhanced flavor before enjoying.
Nutrition Information
6.67
Fat
45
Carbs
10
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Couscous Salad?
It is a vibrant salad made with fluffy couscous, cherry tomatoes, scallions, edamame, and feta cheese.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 6 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat or animal by-products other than dairy.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes, it can be made vegan-friendly by simply omitting the feta cheese.
How much protein is in one serving?
Each serving provides 10 grams of protein.
How much fat does this salad contain?
There are 6.67 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
Each serving contains 45 grams of carbohydrates.
Is this recipe low in cholesterol?
Yes, this dish is categorized as low cholesterol.
What spices are used to season the couscous?
The recipe uses ground cumin, ground coriander, and minced garlic for seasoning.
Does the salad have a spicy kick?
It includes one seeded and minced green chili pepper for a mild heat.
What fresh herbs are recommended?
The recipe suggests using one cup of chopped fresh mint or basil leaves.
How long does it take to prepare the couscous?
The couscous needs to sit for 5 minutes after boiling water is added.
What garnish is suggested for this salad?
Black Kalamata olives are recommended as a garnish as desired.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe uses a total of 2 tablespoons of olive oil, divided.
Should I use frozen or fresh edamame?
The recipe calls for 1.5 cups of frozen shelled edamame.
What type of tomatoes are best for this recipe?
The recipe specifies 3 cups of halved cherry tomatoes.
How do I prepare the green onions?
You should use one bunch of scallions, sliced.
What citrus juice is added to the dressing?
One tablespoon of fresh lemon juice is used to add brightness to the salad.
How much feta cheese is included?
The recipe uses 0.67 cups of crumbled feta cheese.
Do I need to cook the couscous on a stovetop?
No, you simply pour 2 cups of boiling water over the mixture and cover it.
Can I serve this salad cold?
Yes, you can serve it immediately or chill it in the refrigerator to enhance the flavor.
How do I keep the feta from breaking?
Add the crumbled feta at the end and toss gently to incorporate without breaking the pieces.
Are salt and pepper included in the recipe?
Yes, you should season the salad with salt and pepper to taste at the end.
What is the first step of the instructions?
Combine couscous, half a tablespoon of olive oil, chili, cumin, coriander, garlic, and edamame in a bowl.
How do I finish the couscous before mixing?
Once the water is absorbed and it has cooled, fluff the couscous with a fork.
Is this salad healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy dish with wholesome ingredients like vegetables and legumes.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 15 ingredients listed in total.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, because it can be chilled and the flavors develop over time, it is excellent for meal prep.
What are the primary textures in this salad?
The salad offers fluffy couscous, crisp vegetables, and creamy feta cheese.