The Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Raw Squash and Feta is not just a meal; it’s a vibrant fiesta of flavors, textures, and aromas that dances on your palate. Imagine the nutty couscous mingling with crisp squash, tangy feta, and a medley of fresh herbs—each bite feels like a sunny day on the Mediterranean coast. parmesan tomato zucchini bake Mediterranean cod recipe Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just when you want to feel fancy at home, this salad is here to elevate your dining game.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make It Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What type of couscous is best for this Mediterranean Couscous Salad?
- Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
- Is there a vegan option for Mediterranean Couscous Salad?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made this salad for a summer gathering. Friends were skeptical about raw squash, but one taste later, they were fighting over the last serving! With its bright colors and bold flavors, it quickly became our go-to dish for every sunny occasion.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Raw Squash and Feta is incredibly easy to prepare, making meal prep a breeze. You can customize it based on what’s in your fridge or pantry. The vibrant colors make it visually stunning and perfect for any table setting. Ideal for warm weather gatherings but versatile enough for year-round enjoyment. [/info_box]
I once served this salad at a barbecue, and my friend declared it “the best thing since sliced bread!”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Couscous: Use whole wheat couscous for added fiber; it’s quick to cook and soaks up flavors beautifully.
Raw Yellow Squash: Choose firm squash; it adds crunch and a slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for juicy, ripe tomatoes to add bursts of sweetness throughout the salad.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta gives a tangy kick; use Greek feta for an authentic touch. For more inspiration, check out this Greek Chicken Tzatziki Bowls recipe.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens the dish; use flat-leaf parsley for a more robust flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances richness; drizzle generously for added flavor.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds acidity and balances the creaminess of the feta.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors in the salad.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. roasted asparagus and carrots.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by measuring out your couscous according to package instructions. Rinse your cherry tomatoes and chop them in half while admiring their shiny skin.
Cook the Couscous: In boiling water or broth, add couscous and let it sit covered for about 5 minutes until fluffy. Fluff it with a fork for perfect texture.
Cut the Squash and Tomatoes: While waiting, slice your raw squash into thin ribbons using a mandolin or sharp knife. This adds visual appeal as well as crunch.
Toss in Feta and Herbs: In a large bowl, combine fluffed couscous with raw squash ribbons, halved tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley. Mix gently to combine all those delicious flavors.
Add Dressing Ingredients: Drizzle olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice over your salad mix. Sprinkle salt and pepper generously before giving everything another gentle toss.
Serve and Enjoy!: Transfer to a beautiful serving bowl or platter. Enjoy this refreshing Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Raw Squash and Feta chilled or at room temperature—it’s delightful either way! creamy cucumber salad.
This Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Raw Squash and Feta is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds! For more inspiration, check out this One Pot Ravioli Soup recipe.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Raw Squash and Feta is a delightful dish bursting with flavors. The crunch of fresh vegetables combined with the creaminess of feta creates a refreshing experience. This salad is perfect for summer gatherings or as a quick lunch that delights the senses. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling water for the couscous while you chop the vegetables, ensuring everything is fresh and crisp when serving.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or add nuts for crunch. A sprinkle of lemon zest can elevate flavors!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; enjoy cold for a refreshing meal.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To get the best texture from your couscous, let it rest after cooking to absorb all liquid. Experiment with different vinegars or oils to discover new flavor profiles that surprise you. Always taste as you go; adjustments can make a world of difference! [/info_box]
Sharing this recipe always brings back fond memories of outdoor picnics with friends, where laughter mingled with delicious bites of salad and sunshine.
FAQ
What type of couscous is best for this Mediterranean Couscous Salad?
Use pearl couscous for its unique texture and ability to hold flavors well.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it a few hours in advance enhances its flavors beautifully.
Is there a vegan option for Mediterranean Couscous Salad?
Absolutely! Simply omit feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Raw Squash and Feta
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Raw Squash and Feta is a delightful dish that captures the essence of fresh, vibrant flavors. This salad features nutty couscous alongside crunchy raw squash, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, all drizzled with zesty lemon juice and olive oil. Perfect for picnics or dinner parties, this salad is both visually stunning and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a must-try for warm weather gatherings or as a quick lunch.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat couscous
- 1 medium raw yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup crumbled Greek feta cheese
- ¼ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare couscous according to package instructions; fluff with a fork after cooking.
- Slice the raw squash into thin ribbons using a mandolin or sharp knife.
- In a large bowl, combine fluffed couscous, squash ribbons, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad; season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to mix all ingredients.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking required; only boiling couscous
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg