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Couscous is a handy little way to bulk up a salad and turn it into a filling dish. Chickpeas add a dose of protein too for a well-balanced meal, and you can thank the spices for a perfect Middle-Eastern touch!

You will need

Serves 4

  • 1 cup regular or wholemeal couscous
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sub water)
  • 3 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chilli powder (optional)
  • 1 x 400g can chickpeas, drained well
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 cucumbers or 6 baby cucumbers, chopped
  • 2 cups salad greens, of choice
  • 1/2 cup parsley leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 cup coriander leaves, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 1 lemon, juice and zest
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

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Directions

10 mins to prep

20 mins to cook

  1. Step 1

    Prepare the couscous according to its packet instructions. Set aside.

  2. Step 2

    Add the oil, garlic and spices to a large frying pan over high heat. Sauté until the spices are fragrant. Add the chickpeas and sauté for 2 minutes or until the chickpeas are covered in spices. Add a dash of water or vegetable stock to the pan to deglaze the pan or prevent the spices from sticking to the pan.

  3. Step 3

    Add the couscous, spiced chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumbers, salad greens and fresh herbs to a large bowl. Toss until combined.

  4. Step 4

    To make the dressing, add all the ingredients except the salt and pepper to a small bowl and whisk until combined. If the mixture is clumpy, add a little more water and mix until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  5. Step 5

    Divide the dressing into 4 bowls and serve with the dressing. Season with extra salt and pepper if desired.

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Hot tip!

Use vegetable stock instead of water to cook the couscous to give it more flavour.