Refreshing Chilled Cucumber Couscous Salad Recipe

August 19, 2025

This Chilled Cucumber Couscous Salad is a cool and crunchy dish perfect for hot days. It mixes fluffy couscous with fresh cucumbers, bright herbs, and a splash of lemon!

It’s so easy to make; you just cook the couscous, chop the veggies, and toss it all together. I love serving this at gatherings—it always disappears fast!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Couscous: This tiny pasta is the backbone of the salad. For a whole grain option, swap in whole wheat couscous. If gluten is a concern, try quinoa or even riced cauliflower for a lighter choice.

Cucumber: English cucumbers are great as they have fewer seeds and a thin skin. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work just fine. To add a twist, consider using diced bell peppers for extra crunch.

Fresh Herbs: Parsley and mint give the salad a fresh flavor. You can mix and match based on your taste; dill or basil make excellent substitutes too!

Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy, salty touch. If you’re dairy-free, coconut yogurt or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast will provide a different but tasty flavor.

Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for a great taste. If you want a lighter option, avocado oil works well and is also very healthy.

How Do I Make Sure My Couscous is Perfectly Fluffy?

Getting that fluffy couscous is all about technique. After pouring boiling water over it, cover it tightly to trap the steam. This is key for proper cooking. Pay attention to these steps:

  • Use a 1:1 ratio of couscous to water for great results.
  • Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes. This helps it absorb all the moisture.
  • Fluff with a fork, not a spoon! It breaks up the grains, making it lighter.

Remember, letting it cool before mixing helps keep the salad fresh and crunchy.

Refreshing Chilled Cucumber Couscous Salad Recipe

Refreshing Chilled Cucumber Couscous Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 1 cup couscous
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 medium cucumber, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an extra 30 minutes of chilling time in the fridge. It’s quick to make and perfect for enjoying on a hot day!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Couscous:

Start by placing the couscous in a heatproof bowl. Carefully pour the boiling water over the couscous, then cover the bowl tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Let it sit for about 5 minutes so the couscous can absorb the water and soften.

2. Fluff and Cool:

After 5 minutes, use a fork to fluff the couscous gently, breaking up any clumps. Leave it at room temperature to cool down before you mix in the other ingredients.

3. Chop the Vegetables:

While the couscous is cooling, take your time to finely dice the cucumber and chop the red onion, parsley, and mint. Fresh veggies will make your salad taste amazing!

4. Mix the Salad:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled couscous with the diced cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint. Mix everything together well.

5. Prepare the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This dressing will add a burst of flavor to your salad.

6. Combine and Serve:

Pour the dressing over the couscous and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to make sure everything is well-coated. If you’re using it, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top and mix lightly.

7. Chill and Enjoy:

Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve it chilled as a light, refreshing side dish or a healthy lunch! Enjoy!

Refreshing Chilled Cucumber Couscous Salad Recipe

FAQs for Refreshing Chilled Cucumber Couscous Salad

Can I Use Instant Couscous Instead of Regular Couscous?

Yes, you can! Just follow the package instructions for instant couscous, which usually requires less cooking time and may not need boiling water. Instant couscous often cooks more quickly, so keep an eye on it!

How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing can settle at the bottom!

Can I Add More Vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. Diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even corn can add extra color and flavor to your salad. Just make sure to keep the total amount of diced veggies similar for balance.

Is This Salad Vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. It will still be delicious and refreshing without the cheese!

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