Mediterranean Shrimp Couscous Salad

Mediterranean Shrimp Couscous is the kind of vibrant, fresh, and flavorful salad you’ll want to make all summer long. With tender shrimp, creamy feta, juicy tomatoes, and fluffy couscous tossed in a zesty lemon-herb dressing, it’s the perfect light lunch or easy weeknight dinner. Even better? It comes together in just 25 minutes—no stress, no fuss.

Thanks to the fresh dill and parsley, every bite tastes like a seaside escape. The couscous soaks up all the lemony dressing, while the shrimp adds protein to keep you feeling satisfied. Whether you serve it at a picnic, as a meal prep staple, or part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread, this shrimp couscous salad is guaranteed to impress.

Interestingly, couscous is often mistaken for a grain but is actually a type of pasta. Originating in North Africa, it’s loved for its quick cook time and ability to absorb bold, tangy flavors like this lemon vinaigrette. This recipe gives it a modern twist—bright, balanced, and irresistibly fresh.

So if you’re craving a salad that’s hearty, healthy, and downright delicious—this is the one.

Recipe Yield: 2–3 servings

INGREDIENTS

½ cup couscous
8 oz cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup English cucumber, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
¾ cup boiling water
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp sea salt
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Zest of ½ lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
Cracked black pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the couscous:
In a heatproof bowl, combine couscous, boiling water, olive oil, and sea salt. Stir briefly, cover tightly with a lid or plate, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool completely.

2. Mix the dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, and a few cracks of black pepper until emulsified. Set aside.

3. Assemble the salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled couscous, shrimp, feta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, dill, and lemon zest.

4. Toss and serve:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated. Let it chill for 15 minutes before serving for best flavor. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

Use Fresh Herbs for Flavor: Fresh dill and parsley brighten the salad beautifully. Don’t skip them—they’re essential for that Mediterranean flair.
Let the Couscous Cool: Allow the couscous to cool completely before mixing, so it doesn’t melt the feta or wilt the herbs.
Marinate for Extra Depth: If time allows, let the dressed salad rest in the fridge for 30 minutes to deepen flavor and chill before serving.

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