North-Scented Citrus and Mint Couscous Salad

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-07-03 · Updated 2026-07-03

Light and refreshing couscous salad bursting with citrus notes and fresh mint, perfect for a vibrant side or light meal. This Mediterranean-inspired salad recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 15 minutes, pairs couscous, boiling water, orange zest into a side that holds its own next to almost any main — bright, balanced, and quick enough to slot into a weeknight plate. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly next to roasted proteins, grain bowls, or weeknight mains. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 tsp, finely grated orange zest
• 1 tsp, finely grated lemon zest
• 1/4 cup, chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup, chopped fresh parsley
• 3 stalks, thinly sliced green onions
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp, freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tbsp, freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp, freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup, for garnish toasted pine nuts

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place 1 cup couscous in a large bowl and pour 1 cup boiling water over it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and let sit for 5 minutes until all water is absorbed and couscous is tender.
2. Step 2: Fluff couscous with a fork, then stir in 1 tsp finely grated orange zest and 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest for bright citrus aroma.
3. Step 3: Add 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, and 3 thinly sliced green onions. Toss gently to combine.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper until emulsified.
5. Step 5: Pour the dressing over the couscous mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts on top just before serving to add a nutty crunch and garnish.