Greek Chickpea Couscous with Lemon Herb Sauce is a refreshing, wholesome salad that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors. This vibrant dish combines fluffy couscous, protein-rich chickpeas, crisp vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for a light lunch, meal prep, or a side dish at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Quick and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal cooking.
-
Fresh and nutritious: Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and bright flavors.
-
Versatile: Serve as a light meal, picnic side, or base for grilled meats or fish.
-
Make-ahead friendly: Flavors deepen over time, making it perfect for prepping in advance.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Couscous Salad:
-
1 cup couscous
-
1¼ cups boiling water
-
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
-
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
-
½ cucumber, diced
-
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
-
¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
-
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
-
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
-
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Herb Sauce:
-
3 tablespoons olive oil
-
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
-
1 teaspoon lemon zest
-
1 clove garlic, minced
-
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
-
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional)
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
-
Prepare the couscous: In a large bowl, add couscous and pour the boiling water over it. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork once water is fully absorbed.
-
Make the lemon herb sauce: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, dill, mint (if using), salt, and pepper.
-
Mix the salad: Add chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley to the couscous. Toss gently to combine.
-
Dress and serve: Pour the lemon herb sauce over the salad and toss again until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
-
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Optional: Garnish with additional feta or herbs before serving.
Servings and timing
-
Servings: 4–6
-
Prep time: 10 minutes
-
Cook time: 5 minutes
-
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
-
Grain swap: Substitute couscous with quinoa, bulgur, or orzo for a twist.
-
Add greens: Stir in arugula or baby spinach for extra nutrients.
-
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
-
Vegan version: Omit feta or use plant-based feta cheese.
-
Protein boost: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Storage/reheating
-
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
-
Reheating: Best served cold or at room temperature; no reheating necessary.
-
Freezing: Not recommended, as vegetables and couscous may lose texture when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use pearl couscous instead of regular couscous?
Yes, but it will require a longer cook time. Follow package directions for best results.
Is this dish good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It holds up well in the fridge and tastes even better after the flavors meld.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes. The lemon herb sauce can be made 2–3 days in advance and refrigerated.
What can I substitute for Kalamata olives?
Try black olives or green olives, or omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
How do I keep the salad from becoming soggy?
Use firm, fresh vegetables and toss the salad just before serving.
Is couscous gluten-free?
No, couscous is made from wheat. Use quinoa or gluten-free couscous as a substitute.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes. Double all ingredients and use a large mixing bowl for easy preparation.
What if I don’t have dill?
Fresh parsley or basil can work in place of dill for a slightly different herb profile.
Can I add nuts or seeds?
Yes. Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds add a lovely crunch.
How do I make it more filling?
Serve with a side of hummus, pita, or a protein like grilled lamb or falafel.
Conclusion
Greek Chickpea Couscous with Lemon Herb Sauce is a bright, balanced dish full of Mediterranean flavor and wholesome ingredients. With just one bowl and a quick homemade dressing, you’ll have a fresh, nourishing salad ready in minutes. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a protein, this recipe is a vibrant addition to any meal plan.
[tasty-recipe id=”18966″]