Mediterranean Feta Quinoa Salad Recipe

This Mediterranean feta quinoa salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish, perfect for a light lunch or as a side for dinner. Packed with protein-rich quinoa, fresh vegetables, and tangy feta cheese, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

The recipe is simple to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or herbs. It’s an excellent option for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator.

Ingredients That Shine

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

At the heart of this salad is fluffy quinoa, a protein-packed grain that serves as the perfect base.

Adding a burst of color are diced cucumbers and halved cherry tomatoes, which not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute to the refreshing taste.

Crumbling feta cheese over the top introduces a tangy flavor that complements the vegetables beautifully.

Fresh parsley adds a touch of green, making the dish even more inviting.

Preparation Made Simple

Preparing this salad is straightforward and quick, making it an ideal choice for busy days.

Start by cooking the quinoa in water or vegetable broth until fluffy.

While the quinoa cools, chop the vegetables and prepare a light lemon vinaigrette.

Combining these elements in a large bowl allows the flavors to meld together, creating a delightful dish that can be enjoyed immediately or chilled for later.

A Versatile Dish

This Mediterranean feta quinoa salad is incredibly versatile.

Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs.

For a bit of crunch, consider adding bell peppers or radishes.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile.

This adaptability makes it a perfect option for meal prep or gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

This salad shines as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner.

Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or serve it alongside other Mediterranean dishes like hummus and pita.

For a refreshing summer picnic, pack it in a portable container, and enjoy it outdoors.

The vibrant colors and flavors are sure to impress anyone at the table.

Health Benefits

This salad not only pleases the palate but also offers numerous health benefits.

Quinoa is a complete protein, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and those looking to boost their protein intake.

The fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the olive oil in the dressing offers healthy fats.

With only 220 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free option that nourishes the body.

Final Touches

To enhance the overall experience, consider garnishing the salad with extra parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.

This adds a pop of freshness that elevates the dish.

Whether enjoyed at home or shared with friends, this Mediterranean feta quinoa salad is sure to be a hit.

Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful addition to any meal.

Easy Feta Quinoa Salad Recipe

This salad features fluffy quinoa tossed with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese, all drizzled with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. The recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish 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
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Set aside.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chopped vegetables, parsley, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve: Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow 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: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 24g