This Mediterranean quinoa salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish full of crisp veggies, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. With protein-rich quinoa, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, tangy feta, and briny olives, it’s perfect as a side dish or a wholesome vegetarian main.
For the Salad:
1 cup uncooked quinoa
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional)
For the Dressing:
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Let cool.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, feta, olives, parsley, and mint (if using).
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill before serving if desired.
Great for meal prep — stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost.
Make it vegan by skipping the feta or using a dairy-free alternative.
Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/mediterranean-quinoa-salad/