Spring Pea Mint Couscous (Printable Version)

Fluffy couscous, crisp peas, and mint combine with lemon for a fresh Mediterranean-inspired side.

# What You Need:

→ Grains

01 - 1 1/2 cups couscous
02 - 1 3/4 cups vegetable broth or water

→ Vegetables & Herbs

03 - 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
04 - 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
05 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
06 - 1/3 cup scallions, thinly sliced
07 - 1 small English cucumber, diced
08 - 1/2 cup radishes, thinly sliced (optional)

→ Dressing

09 - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
10 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
11 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
12 - 1 garlic clove, minced
13 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish (optional)

15 - 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
16 - Extra mint leaves

# Directions:

01 - Bring vegetable broth or water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Remove from heat, stir in couscous, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and cool to room temperature.
02 - Blanch fresh peas in boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes until bright green and tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. If using thawed frozen peas, skip this step.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
04 - In a large mixing bowl, combine couscous, peas, chopped mint, parsley, scallions, cucumber, and radishes if using.
05 - Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat ingredients evenly.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Transfer to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and extra mint leaves as desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes.
  • Bright, fresh flavors from spring peas and fragrant mint.
  • Versatile as a side dish for Easter or light spring meals.
  • Vegetarian-friendly and easily adaptable to vegan diets.
02 -
  • Prepare the couscous ahead of time to save minutes on busy days.
  • Add the mint and feta just before serving to maintain their vibrant flavors.
  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best dressing taste.
  • Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil for creative variations.
Go Back