Refreshingly light yet satisfyingly hearty, this Low Fat Israeli Couscous Salad is a vibrant medley of wholesome ingredients that’s perfect for healthy eating. Featuring tender pearl couscous as the base, it’s tossed with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy red bell peppers, and a zingy medley of fresh parsley and mint. A zesty lemon-olive oil dressing ties it all together, adding a burst of flavor without excess calories. Ready in under 30 minutes with just a handful of simple steps, this versatile salad is ideal as a nutritious side dish or a light main course. Plus, it’s great for meal prep—simply chill and serve for a refreshing make-ahead option!
Bring 1.5 cups of water to a boil in a medium-sized pot. Add 1 cup of Israeli couscous and 0.5 teaspoon of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 8-10 minutes or until the couscous is tender and the water is absorbed.
While the couscous is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion.
Chop the parsley and mint leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked couscous with the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and mint.
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil, and 0.25 teaspoon of black pepper.
Pour the dressing over the couscous salad and toss gently until all ingredients are well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Calories |
1039 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 24.3 g | 31% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.9 g | 20% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1230 mg | 53% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 182.2 g | 66% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.1 g | 43% | |
| Total Sugars | 16.3 g | ||
| Protein | 29.5 g | 59% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 200 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 5.7 mg | 32% | |
| Potassium | 1506 mg | 32% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.