This mint herb couscous salad is light, refreshing, and packed with vibrant flavors. Fluffy couscous blends with fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, a citrusy dressing, and sweet dried fruit for a satisfying dish that’s perfect as a side or a light meal on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and versatile this salad is. The fresh mint and parsley give it a clean, bright taste, while the citrus dressing adds just the right amount of tang. It’s great served cold or at room temperature, and I often prepare it ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week. Whether I’m heading to a picnic or just want something light and nourishing, this dish always delivers.

ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups water
2 cups regular couscous
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
2 cups finely diced hard vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, cucumbers)
½ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
½ cup finely chopped fresh mint
½ cup currants or raisins
¼ cup orange juice
½ cup chopped nuts (pistachios, pine nuts, or walnuts)
½ cup chopped scallions
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
¼ cup olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

directions

I bring 2 cups of water to a boil, then stir in the olive oil or butter along with the couscous. I remove it from the heat, cover it, and let it sit for 5 minutes.
After resting, I fluff the couscous with a fork to break up any clumps and transfer it to a large bowl.
I add the diced vegetables, parsley, mint, and scallions, mixing gently to combine.
I warm the orange juice slightly, soak the currants or raisins in it for a few minutes, then add both the juice and fruit to the couscous.
I whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, cardamom, coriander, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
I pour the dressing over the couscous mixture and toss everything to coat evenly.
I top the salad with chopped nuts and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes to let the flavors come together.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Rest time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Protein boost: I sometimes mix in chickpeas or grilled chicken to make it more filling.
Fruit swaps: Instead of currants, I like using chopped dried apricots or cranberries.
Leafy greens: I stir in baby spinach or arugula just before serving for added freshness.
Spice change-up: A pinch of cumin or a splash of pomegranate molasses gives it a deeper flavor.
Gluten-free option: I swap couscous for quinoa for a gluten-free version.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving again, I give it a good stir and add a drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice if needed to freshen it up. I serve it cold or at room temperature, and I don’t reheat it, since it’s meant to be enjoyed chilled.

FAQs

### Can I use pearl couscous instead?

Yes, I’ve used pearl couscous and it works great. It gives the salad a heartier bite and a slightly different texture.

### Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Definitely. I usually make it a day in advance and let the flavors develop. I wait to add the nuts and scallions until just before serving to keep them crisp.

### What if I don’t have orange juice?

I’ve used all lemon juice before and it still tastes amazing. If I want a little sweetness, I add a small drizzle of honey or maple syrup to balance it.

### Is this salad good for meal prep?

Absolutely. I pack it into containers for easy lunches and find that it holds up well for several days in the fridge.

### Can I leave out the nuts?

Yes, I sometimes skip the nuts when I want a softer texture or need a nut-free dish. Toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower are a nice alternative.

Conclusion

This mint herb couscous salad is one of my favorite go-to recipes when I want something fresh, flavorful, and easy to put together. I love how the herbs, citrus, and texture all come together in each bite. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, weekday lunches, or whenever I’m craving something light and satisfying.