Mediterranean Feta Quinoa Salad Recipe

This Mediterranean feta quinoa salad is a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines protein-rich quinoa with fresh vegetables and tangy feta cheese. It’s perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner.

The recipe is simple and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or herbs. It’s ideal for meal prep and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Ingredients That Shine

The Mediterranean feta quinoa salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients that come together to create a vibrant dish.

Fluffy quinoa serves as the base, providing a protein-rich foundation.

Bright red cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and sweetness, while crisp green cucumbers contribute a refreshing crunch.

Crumbling white feta cheese throughout the salad introduces a tangy flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients.

Finally, fresh parsley brings a burst of green, enhancing the overall visual appeal and freshness of the dish.

Preparation Made Easy

Preparing this salad is a straightforward process that can be completed in about 30 minutes.

Start by cooking the quinoa, allowing it to fluff up and cool.

While the quinoa is cooking, chop the vegetables, ensuring they are ready to mix in once the quinoa has cooled.

Creating the dressing is as simple as whisking together olive oil and lemon juice, seasoned with salt and pepper to taste.

A Colorful Presentation

Once all the components are ready, combine the cooled quinoa with the chopped vegetables, crumbled feta, and parsley in a large bowl.

Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine, ensuring every ingredient is coated in the zesty dressing.

The result is a colorful and inviting salad that is not only pleasing to the eye but also bursting with flavor.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Mediterranean feta quinoa salad is versatile enough to serve as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner.

It’s ideal for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a healthy meal option, this salad fits the bill perfectly.

Health Benefits

Not only is this salad delicious, but it also offers numerous health benefits.

Quinoa is a complete protein, making it an excellent choice for those seeking plant-based nutrition.

The fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the olive oil adds healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health.

Overall, this salad is a nutritious option that supports a balanced diet.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the dining experience, consider serving this salad with a side of crusty bread or pita.

A glass of chilled white wine pairs beautifully, complementing the Mediterranean flavors.

For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.

This salad is not just a dish; it’s an invitation to enjoy fresh, wholesome ingredients in a delightful way.

Healthy Feta Quinoa Salad Recipe

A colorful Mediterranean quinoa salad with feta, tomatoes, cucumbers, and parsley in a bowl on a wooden table.

This quinoa salad features fluffy quinoa mixed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese, all tossed in a lemon-olive oil dressing. The recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, 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

  1. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Set aside.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chopped vegetables, feta cheese, and parsley. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.
  5. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later. Enjoy cold or at room temperature.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories: 220kcal
  • Fat: 12g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g

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