Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is the perfect refreshing dish for those looking for a healthy and satisfying meal! This vibrant salad combines fluffy quinoa, crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon dressing that brings it all together. It’s simple to prepare, making it ideal for meal prep or a light lunch on busy weekdays!
Table of Contents
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe
- Ingredients for Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
- How to Make Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
- Tips for Making Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
- Make-Ahead Instructions
- Storing Leftovers
- Freezing
- Reheating
- Serving Suggestions
- FAQs
- Try these Mediterranean Quinoa Salad related recipes next!
- Easy Tabbouleh Recipe
- Greek Chopped Salad Recipe
- Lentil Feta Salad Recipe
- Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe
- Perfect for Summer Days. This salad is light and refreshing, making it a fantastic option for warm days when you want something nutritious without feeling heavy.
- Versatile and Customizable. Feel free to change up the ingredients depending on what’s in your pantry or fridge! You can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even swap the veggies for your personal favorites.
Ingredients for Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
- Quinoa: This nutritious grain forms the base of the salad and is loaded with protein and fiber.
- Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch to the salad.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Sliced in half, they contribute juiciness and sweetness.
- Red Onion: Finely diced for a sharp flavor that balances the dish.
- Bell Peppers: Any color works, providing additional crunch and sweetness.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled for tanginess and creaminess.
- Olives: Either black or green, they provide a salty flavor boost.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped for a burst of freshness.
- Lemon Juice: For tanginess that elevates the overall flavor of the salad.
- Olive Oil: To dress the salad and add richness.
How to Make Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
- Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with water (typically a 2:1 ratio of water to quinoa) and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed all the water. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- While the quinoa cools, prepare the vegetables. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, and bell peppers.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced vegetables, crumbled feta, and olives. Toss gently to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this dressing over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for an hour before serving for a more developed flavor.
Tips for Making Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
- Rinsing Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa before cooking to get rid of its natural coating that can give it a bitter taste.
- Serving Temperature: This salad can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled, depending on your preference.
- Mix and Match: Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and veggies! Consider adding spinach, kale, or chickpeas for added nutrition.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad can be made a day in advance, just add the dressing right before serving.
- Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mediterranean Quinoa Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
Freezing Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
- While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the quinoa and thaw it before mixing with fresh veggies.
- You can also freeze it without dressing; just add fresh dressing before serving.
Reheating Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
- If you prefer warm salad, reheat the quinoa gently in a microwave.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until just warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
FAQs
Can I add other proteins to the salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can all be great additions.
How can I make this salad vegan?
Simply omit the feta cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can substitute similar amounts of brown rice; however, the cooking times will differ.
What other vegetables can I include?
Feel free to add carrots, spinach, or any veggies you love!
How long can the salad stay in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, covered, in the refrigerator.
Easy Tabbouleh Recipe
Greek Chopped Salad Recipe
Lentil Feta Salad Recipe
Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a fresh and delicious salad packed with nutrients, ideal for a light meal or a side dish.
Ingredients
- Quinoa: This nutritious grain forms the base of the salad and is loaded with protein and fiber.
- Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch to the salad.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Sliced in half, they contribute juiciness and sweetness.
- Red Onion: Finely diced for a sharp flavor that balances the dish.
- Bell Peppers: Any color works, providing additional crunch and sweetness.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled for tanginess and creaminess.
- Olives: Either black or green, they provide a salty flavor boost.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped for a burst of freshness.
- Lemon Juice: For tanginess that elevates the overall flavor of the salad.
- Olive Oil: To dress the salad and add richness.
Instructions
- Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with water (typically a 2:1 ratio of water to quinoa) and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed all the water. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- While the quinoa cools, prepare the vegetables. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, and bell peppers.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced vegetables, crumbled feta, and olives. Toss gently to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this dressing over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for an hour before serving for a more developed flavor.
Notes
- This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad can be made a day in advance, just add the dressing right before serving.
- Serve it warm, at room temperature, or chilled, depending on your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Mediterranean Salad, Quinoa Salad, Healthy Salad
