If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful, and nourishing dish, the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta Recipe is absolutely what you need to make next. This salad bursts with fresh textures and tastes — bright cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, salty Kalamata olives, and creamy feta come together with fluffy quinoa to create a perfect harmony in every bite. It’s healthy, simple to prepare, and endlessly versatile, making it a go-to weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to bring to any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta Recipe plays a unique role, ensuring the salad is well-balanced in flavor, texture, and color. Fresh vegetables bring vibrancy and crunch, while feta adds the delightful creaminess that ties everything together. Keep these ingredients handy, and the salad will come together effortlessly.
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa rinsed: The perfect gluten-free grain base that soaks up flavors beautifully.
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth: Using broth adds extra depth, but water works just fine for a lighter taste.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved: Juicy sweetness that brightens every forkful.
- 1/2 cup cucumber diced: Adds a cool, crisp texture to contrast the softness of cheese and grains.
- 1/3 cup red onion finely chopped: A little sharpness to balance the salad’s mellow flavors.
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives sliced: Salty and briny, they bring a classic Mediterranean punch.
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy and tangy, it’s the heart and soul of this salad.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped: Herbaceous brightness that refreshes the palate.
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint finely chopped (optional): Adds a subtle cooling note that’s especially delightful on warm days.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Rich, fruity, and the perfect binder for the dressing.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brings acidity and liveliness that lift all the flavors.
- 1 clove garlic minced: Just a hint of warmth and aroma to round out the dressing.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural tastes.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to finish.
How to Make Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
Start by rinsing your quinoa thoroughly under cold water. This step helps remove the natural coating called saponin, which can make quinoa taste bitter. Combine the quinoa and your choice of water or vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa becomes tender. Once done, fluff it up with a fork to separate the grains neatly, then set it aside to cool slightly. This fluffy quinoa is the fluffy, nutritious foundation of your salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients
While the quinoa cooks, chop your cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and slice the Kalamata olives. If you’re using fresh mint and parsley, finely chop these herbs as well to release their wonderful fragrance. These fresh ingredients bring incredible color, texture, and flavor contrast to the fluffy quinoa and creamy feta.
Step 3: Mix the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the slightly cooled quinoa with all the chopped vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and herbs. This is where the salad starts to come alive as all the vibrant colors and textures get tossed together.
Step 4: Whisk and Add the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This simple yet flavorful dressing enhances the salad without overpowering it. Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture, then toss everything gently to ensure each bite is evenly coated with that zesty goodness.
Step 5: Serve Your Salad
You can enjoy this salad slightly warm right after tossing, or chill it in the fridge for a couple of hours to let the flavors meld beautifully. Either way, the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta Recipe is refreshing, hearty, and satisfying.
How to Serve Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta Recipe
Garnishes
For a visually appealing touch and an extra burst of freshness, sprinkle some additional chopped parsley or mint leaves on top before serving. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few lemon wedges on the side invite guests to customize their salad experience.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish if you want a protein boost, or alongside warm pita bread and hummus for an entirely vegetarian Mediterranean spread. It’s also fantastic served with a bowl of hearty lentil soup for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this salad in individual lettuce cups or hollowed-out tomatoes for a colorful appetizer. Layer it in a mason jar with the dressing on the bottom for a grab-and-go lunch option that stays fresh and crisp. Presentation is all about highlighting its vibrant Mediterranean charm!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually become more developed after resting, making your leftovers just as delightful as the freshly made salad.
Freezing
While freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the fresh vegetables and feta cheese, you can freeze cooked quinoa separately in portioned containers. Then, whenever you want to make the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta Recipe, simply thaw the quinoa and mix fresh ingredients and dressing fresh for optimal texture and taste.
Reheating
If you prefer a warm salad, lightly reheat leftover quinoa alone in the microwave or on the stovetop. Then combine it with the fresh vegetables, herbs, and feta right before serving. This keeps the salad from getting soggy or losing its delightful crispness.
FAQs
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! To make the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta Recipe vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The salad remains delicious and fresh with the rest of the ingredients.
Is quinoa gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta Recipe a wonderful choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I use other herbs besides parsley and mint?
Definitely! Basil, dill, or cilantro can be great alternatives that bring their own unique flavor profiles to the salad. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite combination.
How long does the salad last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, this salad stays fresh for up to three days. Beyond that, the veggies might lose their crispness and the flavors might mellow a bit.
Can I prepare this salad for a party or potluck?
Yes! The Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta Recipe is perfect for gatherings because it’s easy to make in large quantities, transports well, and appeals to a variety of tastes thanks to its fresh Mediterranean flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta Recipe quickly becomes a beloved staple thanks to its bright, fresh ingredients, satisfying textures, and simple preparation. Whether you’re feeding family, impressing friends, or just want a nutritious meal that delights your taste buds, this salad delivers every time. Give it a try soon and enjoy a little sunshine on your plate!
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Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and nutritious Mediterranean Quinoa Salad featuring fluffy quinoa, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, tangy Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese. Tossed in a zesty olive oil and lemon dressing, this salad is perfect as a light meal or a vibrant side dish with a fresh herb twist.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: Combine quinoa and water or vegetable broth in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is tender.
- Fluff and Cool: Remove saucepan from heat, fluff quinoa with a fork, and allow it to cool slightly to prepare for mixing.
- Prepare the Salad Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, sliced Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, parsley, and mint if using.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure even coating. Serve the salad slightly warm or chilled according to preference.
Notes
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
- This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or picnics.
