Name: Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Salad with Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined); 4 tbsp olive oil; 6 clove garlic (minced); 2 lemons (zested and juiced); 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 1 tsp kosher salt; black pepper; paprika; 3 cups Pearl Couscous; 3 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 2 Persian cucumbers (diced); 1 red onion (finely diced); 8 oz feta (crumbled); 4 tbsp fresh dill (chopped); 2/3 cup olive oil; 4 tbsp red wine vinegar; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 clove garlic (grated); 2 tsp Dijon; 1 tbsp honey; 2 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp kosher salt; black pepper

This Mediterranean pearl couscous salad with lemon garlic shrimp is fresh, filling and bursting with flavor. Chewy pearl couscous gets tossed with juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, red onion, feta and dill in a bright lemon oregano vinaigrette, then topped with garlicky seared shrimp. This pearl couscous salad is ready in about 35 minutes and tastes great warm or chilled.

It is perfect for meal prep lunches, summer dinners and potlucks. If you love Mediterranean flavors, my Greek Turkey Meatballs with Cucumber Feta Tomato Salad and Greek Rice is another must-make.

Why You’ll Love This Pearl Couscous Salad

A complete meal with protein, grains and veggies in one bowl.
Bright lemon garlic shrimp that cooks in minutes.
Serve it warm or cold, so it works for dinner and next-day lunches.
Feeds a crowd with 6 generous servings.

Ingredients for Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Salad

The Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Shrimp, olive oil, fresh garlic, lemon zest and juice, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, black pepper and a sprinkle of paprika.

The Salad

Pearl couscous (also called Israeli couscous), cherry tomatoes, Persian cucumbers, red onion, crumbled feta and fresh dill.

The Vinaigrette

Olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, grated garlic, Dijon, honey, dried oregano, kosher salt and black pepper.

Swap note: Pearl couscous is made from wheat, so it is not gluten free. For a gluten-free version, use quinoa or orzo-shaped gluten-free pasta. Skip the feta for dairy free.

How to Make Pearl Couscous Salad

Step 1: Cook the couscous

Cook the pearl couscous in salted boiling water according to the package directions until tender. Drain and let it cool.

Step 2: Marinate the shrimp

Toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic, lemon zest and juice, red pepper flakes, paprika, salt and pepper. Let it sit while you prep everything else.

Step 3: Whisk the vinaigrette

Whisk all the vinaigrette ingredients together until combined.

Step 4: Sear the shrimp

Sear the shrimp in a hot pan in small batches until just pink, about 1 to 2 minutes per side.

Step 5: Toss and serve

Toss the couscous with the tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, feta and dill. Pour over the dressing and gently mix. Pile the shrimp on top and serve warm or chilled.

Carly’s Expert Tips

Sear in small batches. Crowding the pan steams the shrimp instead of searing it.
Don’t overcook the shrimp. Pull it as soon as it turns pink and curls into a C shape.
Toast the couscous in a little olive oil before boiling for a nutty flavor.
Dress it while warm. Warm couscous soaks up more of the vinaigrette.

Make It Your Own

Chicken: Swap the shrimp for my The Best Air Fryer Chicken.
Vegetarian: Skip the shrimp and add chickpeas.
Extra Mediterranean: Add kalamata olives, roasted red peppers or artichokes.
Herbs: Use parsley or mint instead of dill.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep: Cook the couscous, chop the veggies and make the vinaigrette up to 3 days ahead. Store the shrimp separately and add it right before serving for the best texture.

What to Serve With Pearl Couscous Salad

This pearl couscous salad is a meal on its own, but it is great with warm pita, hummus or grilled veggies. It also makes a perfect side for grilled chicken or Greek Turkey Meatballs with Cucumber Feta Tomato Salad and Greek Rice.

Storing and Reheating

Store the salad and shrimp in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Serve cold or let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Add a squeeze of lemon to refresh it before serving.

What People Ask About Pearl Couscous Salad

What is pearl couscous?

Pearl couscous, also called Israeli couscous, is small round pasta made from wheat. It is chewier and larger than regular couscous.

Is pearl couscous salad served warm or cold?

Both. This pearl couscous salad is delicious warm right after cooking or chilled from the fridge.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating so it sears well.

How long does pearl couscous salad last?

It lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.