When it comes to wholesome, refreshing, and flavorful dishes, Greek Couscous Salad easily takes the spotlight. This recipe combines the best of Mediterranean flavors—fluffy couscous, crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, tangy red onions, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all dressed with olive oil, lemon juice, and a hint of oregano. It’s a dish that’s light enough for summer meals yet satisfying enough to serve year-round.
The beauty of Greek Couscous Salad lies not just in its taste but also in its simplicity. It requires minimal cooking, uses fresh and readily available ingredients, and can be made ahead of time for easy meal prep. Whether you’re planning a picnic, looking for a healthy side dish, or wanting a light vegetarian main course, this salad is a perfect fit.
Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know about making, serving, and enjoying this dish. From the exact recipe steps to its nutritional benefits, variations, and pro tips, this guide covers it all so you can master Greek Couscous Salad like a true kitchen pro.

Ingredients for Greek Couscous Salad
To prepare this Mediterranean-inspired dish, you’ll need:
- 1 cup couscous, cooked
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Each ingredient adds a layer of flavor that balances the dish perfectly. The couscous forms the base, the vegetables add freshness and crunch, the olives bring a salty brine, and the feta cheese ties it all together with a creamy tang.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Cook couscous according to package instructions and fluff it with a fork. Let it cool completely before mixing.
- Dice cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, chop red onion, and slice Kalamata olives.
- In a large bowl, combine couscous with all the vegetables.
- Prepare the dressing by whisking olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper together. Pour over the salad and toss well.
- Sprinkle feta cheese on top before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: ~290 per serving | Servings: 4
Why This Salad Is So Popular
The reason Greek Couscous Salad is so loved is because it’s light yet filling. Couscous absorbs flavors well, making every bite satisfying. The vegetables give crunch and freshness, the olives provide bold Mediterranean flavor, and the feta cheese adds richness. The lemon and olive oil dressing brings everything together, offering brightness and balance.
This combination makes it perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Unlike heavy, creamy salads, it won’t weigh you down. Instead, it refreshes and nourishes, making it ideal for hot weather or as part of a balanced diet.
Tips for the Best Greek Couscous Salad
- Fluff couscous with a fork so it stays light and doesn’t clump together.
- Let couscous cool before adding veggies to avoid wilting.
- Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for maximum sweetness.
- Keep feta separate until serving if you’re making the salad ahead.
- Adjust the dressing to your taste—more lemon for brightness, more olive oil for richness.
Creative Variations
One of the best things about Greek Couscous Salad is how adaptable it is. Here are some tasty variations you can try:
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for protein.
- Swap couscous for quinoa or bulgur for a twist.
- Add roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers.
- Toss in fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil for extra flavor.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a little spice.
Serving Suggestions
This salad can be served in many ways:
- As a light main dish on its own.
- With grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or fish.
- Alongside hummus, pita bread, and tzatziki for a Mediterranean spread.
- As a refreshing picnic or potluck dish.
Its versatility makes it perfect for lunches, dinners, and gatherings alike.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also nourishing. Couscous provides complex carbs and energy, while cucumbers and tomatoes add hydration and vitamins. Red onion and olives bring antioxidants, and feta cheese offers protein and calcium. Olive oil contributes healthy fats, and lemon juice boosts vitamin C. Together, these ingredients make Greek Couscous Salad both balanced and wholesome.
Storage and Meal Prep
This salad is excellent for meal prep.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Keep feta cheese separate until just before serving.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or olive oil to freshen it up before eating.
- Great for lunches or quick dinners during the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Greek Couscous Salad ahead of time?
Yes! Just keep the feta separate and add it right before serving.
Can I use quinoa instead of couscous?
Definitely. Quinoa works perfectly and makes the dish gluten-free.
What can I use instead of Kalamata olives?
Green olives or black olives are good substitutes.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.
Is it served cold or warm?
It’s best served cold or at room temperature for the freshest taste.
Conclusion
Greek Couscous Salad is a dish that captures the vibrant, refreshing flavors of the Mediterranean in every bite. With fluffy couscous, crisp vegetables, briny olives, creamy feta, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing, it’s both delicious and nutritious. Its versatility makes it perfect for weeknight meals, meal prep, picnics, or festive gatherings.
Once you try it, you’ll see why this salad has become a favorite in so many households. It’s quick, healthy, customizable, and packed with flavor. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try one of the many variations, Greek Couscous Salad will no doubt become a regular star on your table.
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Greek Couscous Salad: A Mediterranean Delight
Ingredients
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1 cup couscous, cooked
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1 cup cucumber, diced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/4 cup red onion, chopped
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1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
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1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tsp oregano
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Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
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Cook couscous according to package instructions, let cool.
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In a bowl, mix couscous with cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and olives.
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Add olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss well.
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Top with feta before serving.