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Light, vibrant, and bursting with Mediterranean flair, this Couscous Arugula Salad is the kind of dish that makes healthy eating feel like a treat. Perfect as a side or a standalone lunch, it combines the nutty chew of pearl couscous with the peppery kick of arugula, briny olives, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of creamy feta cheese. Finished with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, every bite is refreshing and balanced.

Whether you’re packing a picnic basket, prepping a weekday meal, or bringing something fresh to a potluck, this salad delivers in flavor and texture. It’s incredibly customizable too — swap out ingredients, add grilled chicken or chickpeas, or keep it vegan. It’s the kind of salad that never gets boring.

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What Makes Couscous Arugula Salad So Good?

Couscous arugula salad stands out for its mix of textures and bold, clean flavors. Pearl couscous, also known as Israeli couscous, has a tender, pasta-like bite that makes it much heartier than your average salad grain. The arugula brings a peppery brightness, while olives and feta add savory depth. Cherry tomatoes offer a juicy sweetness that ties everything together.

Plus, it’s ready in about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a reliable go-to when you want something fast but impressive.

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Ingredients for the Couscous Arugula Salad

Pearl Couscous – This larger variety of couscous is key for giving the salad its chewy texture and heartiness.

Arugula – Adds a fresh, peppery bite that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the couscous and feta.

Cherry Tomatoes – Juicy and slightly sweet, they brighten up the entire dish.

Mixed Olives – Offer a briny, savory note that pairs perfectly with the lemony dressing.

Feta Cheese – Creamy and tangy, it brings a welcome contrast to the crisp greens.

Lemon Juice & Zest – Fresh lemon enhances every other flavor and ties the salad together.

Olive Oil – A quality extra virgin olive oil brings richness and depth to the vinaigrette.

Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.

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How To Make the Couscous Arugula Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pearl Couscous

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pearl couscous. Simmer for about 8–10 minutes, or until the couscous is tender but still slightly firm. Drain any excess water and fluff the couscous with a fork. Let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad Base

Place the cooked and cooled couscous in a large mixing bowl. Add the arugula, halved cherry tomatoes, and a generous handful of mixed olives. Toss gently to combine.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Dressing

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad. Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette evenly across the top, then toss everything gently to ensure even distribution.

Step 5: Chill or Serve

You can serve the salad right away at room temperature or chill it for 20–30 minutes for a more refreshing bite. Garnish with additional lemon slices or herbs if desired.

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Serving and Storing This Couscous Arugula Salad

This salad shines brightest when served fresh, but it holds up beautifully for meal prep or potlucks. If you’re making it ahead, keep the arugula separate and toss it in just before serving to maintain its vibrant crunch. The flavors deepen as it sits, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even better the next day.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it seems a bit dry after chilling, just add a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon to freshen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Just omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative.

What’s the difference between pearl couscous and regular couscous?

Pearl couscous is larger and has a chewier texture, more like small pasta. Regular couscous is finer and cooks much quicker.

Can I use spinach instead of arugula?

Absolutely. Spinach offers a milder flavor and is a great alternative if you’re not a fan of arugula’s peppery bite.

What protein can I add to make it a main dish?

Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even seared salmon are excellent options for turning this salad into a complete meal.

Is it okay to serve warm?

Yes, you can serve it slightly warm or at room temperature. Just be sure not to wilt the arugula too much.

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Want More Salad Ideas with a Mediterranean Twist?

If you love this Couscous Arugula Salad, you’ll probably enjoy these other refreshing favorites:

• Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with fresh herbs and tangy vinaigrette.
• Orzo Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil for a heartier bite.
• Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad packed with parsley, mint, and lemon zest.
• Grilled Halloumi Salad with Citrus for a satisfying vegetarian option.
• Roasted Vegetable Couscous Salad with warm spices and crunchy almonds.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap the feta? Try a new vinaigrette? Maybe even tossed in some pine nuts?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook with joy.

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