Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a refreshing, nutrient-packed dish that combines colorful vegetables and protein-rich quinoa. Bursting with flavor from fresh herbs, zesty lemon juice, and creamy feta, this salad is ideal for picnics, barbecues, or meal prep. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature as a light meal or vibrant side dish that will impress your guests and elevate any gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers (any color), diced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or mint for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa under cold water and combine with water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until water is absorbed.
- While quinoa cooks, prepare the vegetables: chop cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, finely dice red onion, and dice bell peppers.
- Once quinoa is slightly cooled, transfer to a large bowl. Add chopped vegetables and crumbled feta; gently mix.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper. Pour over salad mixture and fold gently to combine.
- Let sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Customize by adding chickpeas for extra protein or using seasonal vegetables for freshness. This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.