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Fresh Spring Couscous Salad with Arugula and Garlic Magic

A vibrant Spring Couscous Salad with arugula and a zesty garlic marinade, perfect for a quick, nourishing meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 cup Pearl Couscous A hearty foundation; swap with quinoa for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 cup Fresh Peas Feel free to use frozen if short on time.
For the Greens
  • 2 cups Arugula Use baby spinach if preferred.
  • 1/4 cup Mint Fresh herbs that elevate the dish.
  • 1/4 cup Parsley Fresh herbs that elevate the dish.
For the Crunch
  • 1 medium Red Onion Soak in lemon juice to mellow if desired.
  • 1/4 cup Pistachios Optional; consider toasted almonds for flavor.
For the Marinade
  • 2 cloves Garlic Sauté before adding for enhanced flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Use quality extra-virgin for a gourmet touch.
  • 1 teaspoon Za'atar Infuses a distinct Middle Eastern flair.

Equipment

  • pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Boil water and blanch peas for 1 to 1.5 minutes until bright green. Drain and set aside.
  2. Bring 1.5 cups salted water to boil, add pearl couscous, and cook for 8-10 minutes until absorbed and tender. Fluff with a fork, rest for a minute.
  3. Heat olive oil in skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in za'atar and kosher salt; let simmer for a minute.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooked couscous, red onion, blanched peas, arugula, mint, and parsley. Fold gently to mix.
  5. Drizzle the warm garlic marinade over the salad and toss gently for even coating.
  6. Serve immediately or store components separately to maintain freshness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 250mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 6gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 8mg

Notes

For the best flavors, add fresh herbs just before serving. Store salad components separately if prepping ahead.

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