Mediterranean Delight Quinoa Salad
This refreshing Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is packed with vibrant vegetables, salty feta, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing. It's a perfect light meal or side dish that's both healthy and delicious.
Equipment
- saucepan
- fork
- baking sheet
- small bowl
- whisk
- large mixing bowl
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 English cucumber diced
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano chopped
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Combine rinsed quinoa and broth in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- Remove from heat, let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and spread on a baking sheet to cool completely.
Dressing
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
Assembly
- Combine the cooled quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, fresh parsley, and fresh oregano in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture, then gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
For an extra boost of flavor, toast the quinoa lightly before adding the broth. You can also add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.