Looking for a light yet satisfying meal? This Mediterranean quinoa salad is a vibrant mix of flavors and textures that will brighten up your lunch or dinner. Packed with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing, it’s the perfect dish for warm days or meal prep for the week ahead.
This quinoa salad is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. Whether you’re serving it as a side at a barbecue or enjoying it as a main dish, this recipe will be a hit.
With its nutty quinoa base, crunchy cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, each bite bursts with freshness. A drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice brings everything together, creating a salad that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Vibrant Ingredients Come Together
This Mediterranean quinoa salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate, showcasing an array of colors and textures.
The burst of red from cherry tomatoes, the crisp green of cucumbers, and the sunny yellow of bell peppers create a vibrant display that is as pleasing to the senses as it is nutritious.
The addition of crumbled feta cheese introduces a creamy texture, perfectly complementing the crunch of the vegetables.
Wholesome and Nutritious Base
At the heart of this dish is quinoa, a protein-rich grain that serves as a satisfying base.
Quinoa not only brings a slightly nutty flavor but also provides essential nutrients, making the salad a complete meal option.
Combined with fresh vegetables, this salad offers a wholesome choice for those seeking nutritious meal options.
Easy Preparation Steps
Preparing this salad is quick and straightforward, making it ideal for busy individuals or families.
Start by cooking the quinoa until fluffy, allowing it to cool while you chop the fresh ingredients.
Mix everything together in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, and season to taste. The simplicity of the preparation does not compromise the flavor or freshness of the dish.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This quinoa salad is versatile enough for various occasions.
Whether served at a summer barbecue, as part of a picnic spread, or as a weekday lunch, it adapts effortlessly to any setting.
The ability to prepare it ahead of time means you can enjoy it as a refreshing meal option throughout the week.
A Touch of Freshness with Garnishes
To elevate the salad, a sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor profile.
Drizzling with high-quality olive oil contributes richness, while the lemon juice provides a bright, zesty finish.
These finishing touches make the salad more appealing and flavorful, inviting everyone to dig in.
Serving Suggestions
This Mediterranean quinoa salad can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various dishes.
It makes an excellent side for grilled meats or fish, offering a refreshing contrast to heartier flavors.
Alternatively, serve it alongside crusty bread or as part of a larger mezze platter for a delightful spread.
Healthy Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
This quinoa salad combines nutty quinoa with crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing, making it a delightful and nutritious dish. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, add rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Let it cool.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Gather the parsley and feta cheese.
- Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chopped vegetables, parsley, and feta cheese.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
