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Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

A vibrant, protein‑rich Mediterranean quinoa salad featuring fluffy quinoa, sun‑kissed tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy feta, and a zesty lemon‑olive oil dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Salad
Calories: 185

Ingredients
  

Grains
  • 1 cup quinoa (dry)
Vegetables
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
Cheese
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Olives
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
Herbs
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
Dressing
  • 2 tbsp extra‑virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey
Seasonings
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Method
 

Steps
  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat, let stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and allow to cool to room temperature.
  2. While the quinoa cooks, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the olives, finely dice the red onion, and chop the parsley and mint.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until the mixture is well emulsified.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, cucumber, tomatoes, olives, onion, parsley, and mint. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

Storage: Keep in an airtight container up to 3 days. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Add dressing just before serving to keep crisp.