How To Make Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with a full recipe at your home in a very easy way.
This salad is packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and Zesty lemon vinaigrette, making it a perfect meal for sides or a light dinner.
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Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Salad
- Quinoa: 1 cup, uncooked
- Cucumbers: 1 cup, diced
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Red Onion: 1/2 cup, finely chopped
- Kalamata Olives: 1/2 cup, pitted and sliced
- Feta Cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Fresh Mint: 1/4 cup, chopped
For the Dressing
- Olive Oil: 1/3 cup
- Lemon Juice: 3 tablespoons
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife and chopping board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Preparation Steps
Cook the Quinoa
- Rinse Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural coating, saponin, which can make it taste bitter or soapy.
- Cook Quinoa: In a saucepan, combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed. Let it cool to room temperature.
Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop Vegetables: Dice the cucumbers, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the red onion, and slice the olives.
- Herbs: Finely chop the fresh parsley and mint.
Make the Dressing
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Salad
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled quinoa with the cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, olives, parsley, and mint.
- Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Add Feta: Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
Assembling the salad
Serve
- Chill or Serve Immediately: The salad can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for an hour to allow flavors to meld.
Tips:
- Quinoa Cooking: Ensure the quinoa is fluffy and not mushy.
- Dressing: Adjust the lemon juice and seasoning according to your taste.
- Variations: You can add chickpeas, avocado, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Safety Precautions:
- Handle the knife and hot saucepan with care.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a healthy, refreshing dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s perfect as a meal or as a side dish.
