Name: Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad with Roasted and Fresh Tomatoes, Feta, and Chickpeas Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 cups cherry tomatoes, divided (2 cups for roasting, 2 cups raw); 1 cup dry pearl couscous; 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, plus more to taste; 1 garlic clove, minced; Leaves from 6 sprigs fresh thyme, plus more for garnish; ¼ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1½ cups roasted chickpeas, tossed with ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika before roasting; ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish; 2 Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced; ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 1 review

If you are searching for a vibrant and flavorful dish that bursts with freshness and heartiness, the Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad with Roasted and Fresh Tomatoes, Feta, and Chickpeas Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful salad perfectly balances sweet roasted tomatoes with crisp raw ones, tangy feta, and protein-rich chickpeas, all tossed with fragrant herbs and light lemon dressing. It’s an incredibly satisfying meal that feels both refreshing and comforting, ideal for everything from casual lunches to festive picnics.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows nine different white bowls and dishes placed on a white marbled surface. In the top left bowl are beige chickpeas, next to it on the right is another white bowl filled with small white grains. Below them, a small white dish holds crumbled white cheese, and next to that is a small glass container with golden olive oil. In the center, a white bowl contains small round red tomatoes with green stems. To the right, there is a bowl with many sliced green cucumber rounds. Below, a halved lemon lies directly on the surface, and a small bunch of green thyme sprigs rests nearby. Bright red cherry tomatoes still attached to green vines are scattered around the bowls, adding more red color to the scene. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What’s wonderful about this recipe is how the simple, fresh ingredients come together to create a medley of taste, texture, and color. Each component plays a vital role, from the juicy cherry tomatoes that provide bursts of sweetness to the creamy feta adding just the right amount of saltiness.

Cherry tomatoes: Use half for roasting to deepen their flavor and half raw for freshness and crunch.
Pearl couscous: This tiny, chewy pasta base soaks up the dressing beautifully while providing subtle nuttiness.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity layer that ties the whole salad together.
Lemon juice: Brings brightness and a zesty contrast to the sweetness of tomatoes and creaminess of feta.
Garlic clove: Minced finely to give a subtle yet aromatic kick without overpowering the dish.
Fresh thyme leaves: Infuse a delicate herbaceous note that complements the Mediterranean flavors perfectly.
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning to bring all the flavors to life.
Roasted chickpeas: Tossed with smoked paprika, they add smoky crunch and protein-packed substance.
Fresh basil leaves: Offer a sweet, peppery aroma that brightens the salad.
Persian cucumbers: Thinly sliced to add a crisp, refreshing bite.
Crumbled feta cheese: Adds creamy texture and a salty depth to every spoonful.

How to Make Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad with Roasted and Fresh Tomatoes, Feta, and Chickpeas Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Begin by roasting half of the cherry tomatoes. Roasting them intensifies their natural sweetness and creates tender bursts of umami that elevate the whole salad. You can prepare these tomatoes a few days in advance and keep them chilled for easy assembly later.

Step 2: Cook the Couscous

While the tomatoes roast, cook the pearl couscous according to package instructions until al dente—about 9 minutes. Drain and let it cool down; the slightly chewy texture provides the perfect base for all the fresh and roasted ingredients.

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme leaves, sea salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. This simple dressing is vibrant and herbaceous, perfectly uniting all the salad components.

Step 4: Toss the Salad

Add the cooled couscous to the bowl with the dressing and give it a gentle toss. Next, slice the remaining raw cherry tomatoes in half and add them along with the roasted tomatoes, smoked paprika roasted chickpeas, fresh basil, cucumbers, and crumbled feta. Toss everything delicately to combine all those amazing flavors and textures.

Step 5: Final Touches

Top your salad with extra thyme and basil leaves and finish with a generous drizzle of olive oil. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash more lemon juice if you want extra brightness. This step ensures your salad pops with freshness and flavor on every bite.

How to Serve Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad with Roasted and Fresh Tomatoes, Feta, and Chickpeas Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with a fresh couscous salad on a white marbled surface. The salad has small, round couscous grains forming the base layer, mixed with cherry tomatoes, some whole and some halved, in bright red and deep roasted red colors scattered throughout. There are thin slices of green cucumber layered evenly, along with crispy chickpeas that add a golden orange color. Fresh green basil leaves and small white cheese crumbles are sprinkled on top, adding contrast. The overall look is colorful with textures from soft couscous, juicy tomatoes, crunchy chickpeas, and leafy herbs, creating a vibrant and appealing dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of additional fresh herbs like basil and thyme not only brightens the visual appeal but also adds bursts of herbal aroma. For extra flair, thin lemon zest curls or a handful of toasted pine nuts would be delightful toppings.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a star dish but pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or falafel for a more substantial meal. Serving alongside warm pita bread or a light soup makes for a balanced and satisfying Mediterranean-inspired feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad with Roasted and Fresh Tomatoes, Feta, and Chickpeas Recipe in colorful bowls or individual mason jars for picnics or lunch on the go. Layered in a clear glass container, you can display the vibrant colors and textures, making your meal as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, during which the flavors marry beautifully even further. Just give it a quick toss before serving again to freshen it up.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended. The texture of the fresh vegetables and the creamy feta will not hold up well once frozen and thawed.

Reheating

If you prefer your salad slightly warmed, gently heat only the couscous portion and mix back with the fresh components and roasted tomatoes afterward. Avoid microwaving the entire salad to preserve the integrity of ingredients like feta and fresh herbs.

FAQs

Can I use regular couscous instead of pearl couscous?

Absolutely! Regular couscous works as a substitute and will absorb flavors well. However, pearl couscous provides a larger, chewier texture that adds to the salad’s overall mouthfeel.

Is it necessary to roast the tomatoes?

Roasting the tomatoes is optional but highly recommended for the added depth and sweetness it brings. If you’re short on time, using all fresh tomatoes will still create a delicious salad.

How spicy are the roasted chickpeas?

The roasted chickpeas are lightly seasoned with smoked paprika, giving them a mild smoky flavor without much heat—perfect for adding a crunchy texture without overwhelming the salad.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative like almond-based cheese or marinated tofu to keep the creamy, salty element while staying vegan.

What is the best way to store the salad dressing if making ahead?

You can prepare the dressing separately and store it in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Whisk it gently before adding to the salad to ensure the flavors remain fresh and vivid.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the combination of roasted and fresh tomatoes, creamy feta, and hearty chickpeas tossed with fragrant herbs in this Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad with Roasted and Fresh Tomatoes, Feta, and Chickpeas Recipe. It’s a recipe that feels like sunshine on a plate, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring as a wholesome meal on your own. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite summer salad!