Description

Dive into the vibrant world of Mediterranean cuisine with this refreshing Mediterranean Quinoa Salad. This dish combines the nutty flavors of quinoa with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing, making it a perfect choice for a healthy, filling lunch or a light dinner side. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s not just delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Whether you’re a long-time quinoa lover or just looking for a new way to enjoy this superfood, this salad is sure to delight your palate.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water (or vegetable broth for more flavor). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool.
Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooking, dice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the Kalamata olives.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, diced vegetables, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Notes

Notes and Tips:

Quinoa Preparation: Ensure you rinse the quinoa under cold water before cooking to remove its natural coating, saponin, which can give it a bitter taste.
Customization: Feel free to add other Mediterranean ingredients such as artichoke hearts, capers, or roasted red peppers to the salad for extra flavor and texture.
Dressing Variation: For a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of tahini or Greek yogurt to the dressing mixture.
Storage: This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep.

Conclusion:

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a testament to the simplicity and richness of Mediterranean cuisine. It’s a versatile dish that not only serves as a testament to healthy eating but also brings a burst of color and flavor to your table. Whether you’re enjoying it as a stand-alone meal or as a complement to your favorite protein, this salad is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the journey through the flavors of the Mediterranean with every bite!