Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe

There’s something inherently joyous about the preparation and sharing of a beautiful, vibrant dish. Our Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is one of those recipes that not only delights the taste buds but also creates an inviting atmosphere at your dining table. Imagine yourself gathering with loved ones around a bright, airy kitchen, surrounded by light wooden accents, and reveling in the lightness and healthiness of each bite. This salad, bursting with the freshness of tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, and topped with crumbled feta cheese, seamlessly brings Southern Europe’s flavors into your home. Whether it’s a special family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.
3. While the quinoa is cooling, prepare the vegetables. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, parsley, and mint.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Once the quinoa is cool, add it to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top and give it a light toss to integrate the cheese.
7. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a later meal.

Helpful Tips

• Make it Your Own: Add in other Mediterranean favorites like artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers for added flavor.
• Easy Variation: Use pearl couscous instead of quinoa for a different texture.
• For Beginners: Pre-chopped vegetables can save time and make the process even simpler.
• Storage Instructions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Swap feta cheese with a vegan cheese if preferred. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried parsley and mint can be used, adjusting the quantity to taste.

Pairings

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty bowl of soup. For a complete meal, enjoy it alongside a chilled glass of sparkling water with a touch of lemon or your favorite white wine.

At Zynahz, we believe in bringing joy and creativity into your kitchen, one delightful recipe at a time. We hope this Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe inspires you to gather with family and friends and share the love of good food. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us and spread the word! For more delicious recipes, follow along on our social media channels, and be sure to sign up for our newsletter.