Description
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a delightful dish that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with fresh vegetables and zesty dressing, making it a colorful and nutrient-packed option for a light meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Optional: 1 cup chickpeas or grilled chicken
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water for about two minutes.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- While the quinoa is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives, and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- Add the cooked quinoa to the bowl with the chopped vegetables, pour the dressing over, and gently toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, optionally topped with feta cheese or additional protein.
Notes
- For a vegan option, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Consider adding bell peppers, artichokes, or roasted sweet potatoes for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing and Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Mediterranean, Quinoa, Salad, Healthy, Vegetarian, Easy Recipe