Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Couscous Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Feta

Step 1: Cook the Couscous

1. Measure 1 cup of dry couscous and place it in a large, heatproof bowl (glass or metal works best).

2. Boil 1 cup of water (or low-sodium vegetable broth for extra flavor) in a small saucepan or kettle.

3. Immediately pour the boiling liquid over the couscous in the bowl.

4. Cover the bowl tightly with a lid, plate, or foil. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes—this allows the couscous to absorb the liquid and soften perfectly.

5. After 5 minutes, remove the cover and fluff the couscous gently with a fork. This breaks up any clumps and gives you that signature light, fluffy texture.

💡 Tip: Don’t stir while it’s steaming—just let the couscous do its thing!

Step 2: Prep the Salad Ingredients

While the couscous is steaming and cooling, get your fresh ingredients ready:

• Dice 1 medium cucumber into small, bite-sized chunks. No need to peel unless the skin is tough.

• Thinly slice 1/4 of a red onion. If you’re sensitive to the sharpness of raw onion, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain thoroughly. This mellows out the bite.

• Chop about 1/3 cup of sun-dried tomatoes into small pieces.
  • If they’re packed in oil, pat them dry with a paper towel first so the salad isn’t too oily.

• Crumble 1/2 cup of feta cheese.

• Roughly chop a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or mint if using. This adds freshness and color.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Once the couscous is completely cooled to room temperature, transfer it to a large salad bowl if it’s not already in one.

2. Add the cucumber, red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta, and herbs to the bowl with the couscous.

3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together:

   • 2 tablespoons of olive oil

   • 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (fresh is best)

   • 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar

4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture.

5. Gently toss everything together using salad tongs or two spoons until all ingredients are evenly coated and well combined.

6. Taste and season with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper to your liking.

💡 Tip: Want an extra pop of flavor? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of garlic powder to the dressing!

Step 4: Let It Chill

1. Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap or a reusable lid.

2. Refrigerate for at least 15–30 minutes before serving. This helps all those amazing flavors soak in and settle.

3. Before serving, give it one last gentle toss and adjust seasoning if needed—maybe a little more lemon juice or feta if you’re feeling extra bold.

🥄 This salad is best served chilled or at cool room temperature. It also holds up great for potlucks, picnics, and family reunions, so feel free to make it a few hours ahead!