Cucumber Feta Salad with Couscous (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Salad

01 - 1 cup pearled couscous
02 - 1.5 cups English cucumbers, cut into half moons
03 - 1 large ripe avocado, diced
04 - 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
05 - 1/3 cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
06 - 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

→ Dressing

07 - 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
08 - 1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard
09 - 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
10 - 1/4 teaspoon minced garlic (optional)
11 - 1/4 cup olive oil
12 - 1.5 teaspoons honey
13 - 1 lemon, freshly squeezed
14 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
15 - 1/4 teaspoon pepper

# Instructions:

01 - Zest and juice the lemon to get 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest and 1.5 tablespoons lemon juice. Combine all dressing ingredients in a jar. Shake well and refrigerate until ready to use.
02 - Prepare couscous according to package directions (boil 1.5 cups water with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon olive oil. Add couscous, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 8–10 minutes until tender). Transfer to a large bowl and refrigerate until chilled.
03 - To the cooled couscous, add cucumbers, avocado, chickpeas, parsley, and feta. Shake the dressing and drizzle over the salad. Gently toss to combine and serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Israeli couscous (or pearled couscous) is essential for the right texture. Follow package directions for cooking and seasoning.
02 - English cucumbers are best for their vibrant flavor and firm texture.
03 - Only dress the portion you plan to eat as the avocado browns quickly and the dressing can wilt the veggies. This salad does not freeze well.