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