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The Mediterranean diet is more than just a way of eating; it is a lifestyle that promotes health and well-being through balanced nutrition and mindful eating practices. Originating from countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, this diet celebrates whole foods and simplicity. While it includes a variety of cuisines, some common characteristics unite them: an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats, particularly olive oil.

Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Discover the vibrant world of Mediterranean cuisine with a refreshing Mediterranean Couscous Salad. This colorful dish showcases the best of fresh ingredients, including couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese, all brought together with a simple olive oil and lemon dressing. Perfect for gatherings or meal prep, this salad is not just delicious but also packed with health benefits. Join us in celebrating wholesome eating and communal dining with this delightful recipe!

Ingredients
  

1 cup couscous

1 1/4 cups vegetable broth (or water)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

Juice of 1 lemon

3 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a hint of spice)

Instructions
 

Cook the Couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth (or water) to a boil. Add the couscous, reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Allow it to cool to room temperature.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the couscous is cooling, prepare your vegetables. Dice the cucumber, chop the red onion, and slice the bell pepper into small pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and pit and slice the Kalamata olives.

      Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes until combined.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, feta cheese, parsley, and mint.

          Add the Dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently until all ingredients are well coated.

            Taste and Adjust: Give the salad a taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

              Chill & Serve: For optimal flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6