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Are you on the lookout for a light and refreshing dish that perfectly complements a variety of occasions? The Zesty Lemon Chickpea Couscous Salad is an ideal choice for anyone seeking a vibrant, nutritious meal that's both easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying. This salad is not only packed with flavor but also brims with health benefits, making it a fantastic addition to your weekly meal prep or a delightful centerpiece at your next gathering.

Lemon Chickpea Couscous Salad

Looking for a light and delicious meal? Try the Zesty Lemon Chickpea Couscous Salad! This vibrant dish is packed with nutritious ingredients like fluffy couscous, protein-rich chickpeas, and fresh veggies, all drizzled with a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or potluck favorite, it’s both easy to make and sure to impress. Enjoy a refreshing burst of flavors that supports a healthy lifestyle with every bite!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup couscous

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium cucumber, diced into bite-sized pieces

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, loosely packed and chopped

1/4 cup fresh mint, loosely packed and chopped

1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional for a creamy touch)

Juice of 2 fresh lemons

Zest of 1 lemon (using a microplane for fine zest)

1/4 cup high-quality olive oil

1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan-friendly alternative)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare Couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring 1 1/4 cups of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, stir in the couscous and cover the pan with a lid. Remove the pan from heat and let it sit undisturbed for approximately 5 minutes, or until the water has been absorbed. Fluff the couscous with a fork and spread it out on a baking sheet to cool completely.

    Mix Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is emulsified and well combined.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled couscous, drained chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, parsley, mint, and crumbled feta cheese (if using). Toss these ingredients together gently to combine.

        Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared lemon dressing over the couscous and vegetable mixture. Using a large spoon, toss everything together with care so that the dressing evenly coats all the ingredients.

          Chill & Serve: To enhance the flavors, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to meld beautifully. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with a few sprigs of mint or a sprinkle of additional feta if desired.

            Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6

              Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the salad in a large, shallow dish, and create a colorful display with the various ingredients. Sprinkle some extra parsley or mint on top as a garnish for a fresh touch. You can also serve it alongside lemon wedges for an added splash of color and freshness!