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Israeli Couscous Tabbouleh

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant Israeli couscous tabbouleh is a refreshing vegan dish that offers a delightful twist on the traditional Levantine salad. By using toasted pearl couscous instead of bulgur wheat, the salad gains a wonderful chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the crunch of English cucumber and the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes. Zesty lemon and extra-virgin olive oil tie the flavours together, creating a bright, citrusy dressing that makes this dish sing.

Ideal as a light lunch or a sophisticated side for a summer barbecue, this healthy salad is remarkably simple to prepare. It is a fantastic option for meal prep as the flavours develop beautifully overnight in the fridge. Simply stir through the fresh flat-leaf parsley and mint just before serving to ensure the herbs remain bright and fragrant. This versatile recipe is sure to become a staple in your plant-based repertoire.

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Ingredients for Israeli Couscous Tabbouleh

  • 350ml Israeli couscous

  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped

  • 120ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons (or more) fresh lemon juice

  • 1 English hothouse cucumber, unpeeled, seeded, finely chopped

  • 725ml cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

How to make Israeli Couscous Tabbouleh

Cook couscous according to package directions; drain. Rinse with cold water and drain well.

Whisk shallot, oil, and 2 tablespoons lemon juice in a large bowl. Add couscous, cucumber, tomatoes, parsley, and mint; season with salt, pepper, and more lemon juice, if desired, and toss to combine.

DO AHEAD: Israeli Couscous Tabbouleh can be made 1 day ahead (omit herbs). Cover and chill. Fold in herbs just before serving.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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