5-Day Couscous: A Flavorful Make-Ahead Vegetable Delight Recipe
This simple 5-Day Couscous recipe is a versatile and easy-to-make base perfect for meal prepping. Featuring fluffy couscous combined with fresh vegetables and herbs, dressed with olive oil, this dish can be stored and served throughout the week as a nutritious and convenient side or main dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Couscous Base
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cup boiling water or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 cup mixed fresh vegetables (e.g., diced cucumber, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, cilantro), finely chopped
Additional Drizzle
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Couscous: In a heatproof bowl, combine 1 cup of couscous with a pinch of salt. Pour 1 cup of boiling water or hot vegetable broth over the couscous, cover tightly, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the couscous is tender and fluffy. Fluff with a fork to separate the grains.
- Mix in Vegetables and Herbs: Once the couscous has cooled slightly, stir in the diced vegetables and chopped fresh herbs, mixing well to combine evenly throughout.
- Add Olive Oil: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the couscous mixture to add moisture and flavor, tossing gently.
- Store for the Week: Transfer the couscous salad into an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to 5 days, making it ideal for meal prepping.
- Serve: Serve cold or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light main meal throughout the week. Add additional olive oil or fresh lemon juice if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can customize the vegetables according to the season and your preference.
- For added protein, include chickpeas, feta cheese, or grilled chicken when serving.
- Ensure the couscous is fully cooled before adding vegetables to maintain freshness.
- Store in an airtight container to preserve flavor and texture throughout the 5 days.
Keywords: couscous, meal prep, Mediterranean, easy side dish, vegetarian, healthy, make-ahead salad
