Looking for a fresh and healthy dish? This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is packed with flavor and easy to make! With colorful veggies, feta cheese, and a tangy lemon dressing, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Plus, it’s nutritious and satisfying. In this post, I’ll guide you through the ingredients and simple steps to whip up this delicious salad. Let’s dive in and make something great together!
![- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed - 2 cups vegetable broth or water - ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cucumber, diced - ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped - ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved - ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled - ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped - ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped - 3 tablespoons olive oil - Juice of 1 lemon - Salt and pepper to taste Quinoa is the star of this dish. It’s a whole grain packed with protein and fiber. You can rinse the quinoa to remove any bitter taste. For this salad, using vegetable broth adds more flavor. The broth or water makes it fluffy and tasty. Next, we have fresh vegetables. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. The cucumber gives a nice crunch. Red onion adds a bit of zing. Kalamata olives give a salty kick. Feta cheese brings creaminess to the mix. Fresh parsley and mint leaves give a burst of freshness. The dressing is simple and bright. Olive oil and lemon juice make it tangy. Salt and pepper add the right touch. This balance makes the salad lively. This salad is healthy and full of good nutrients. Quinoa has protein, fiber, and B vitamins. The vegetables bring vitamins and minerals. Feta offers calcium, while olives provide healthy fats. This recipe makes about four servings. It’s perfect for lunch or as a side dish. You can easily double it for a bigger crowd. Enjoy it fresh or let it chill in the fridge for later. Check out the [Full Recipe] for more details on how to make this delicious dish! 1. Bringing the liquid to a boil: Start by pouring 2 cups of vegetable broth or water into a medium saucepan. Turn the heat to high and let it come to a rolling boil. 2. Simmering instructions: Once boiling, add 1 cup of rinsed quinoa. Stir it once, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for about 15 minutes. Check if the liquid is absorbed. 3. Cooling the quinoa: After cooking, remove the pot from heat. Transfer the quinoa to a large bowl and let it cool down. This helps keep the salad fresh and tasty. 1. Combining ingredients for the salad: In the large bowl with cooled quinoa, add the following: - ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes - 1 diced cucumber - ¼ cup finely chopped red onion - ½ cup pitted and halved Kalamata olives - ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese - ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley - ¼ cup chopped fresh mint leaves 2. Making the dressing: In a small bowl, mix together: - 3 tablespoons olive oil - Juice of 1 lemon - Salt and pepper to taste Whisk until smooth and well combined. 3. Tossing and combining everything: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until the flavors blend. 1. Adjusting seasoning: Taste your salad and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. This step makes sure every bite is full of flavor. 2. Refrigeration time: Cover the salad and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to mix and get even better. 3. Presentation tips: Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates. Garnish with extra feta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful look. Enjoy your Mediterranean quinoa salad! For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To make quinoa great, start with rinsing. Rinse the quinoa under cold water. This step helps remove the bitter coating called saponins. It takes just a minute, but it makes a big difference. For cooking, I suggest using vegetable broth. Broth adds rich flavor compared to plain water. If you prefer water, that works too, but you might want to add salt. To enhance flavor, try toasting the quinoa. Heat it in a dry pan for a few minutes. This brings out a nutty taste. You can also add spices like garlic powder or a bay leaf during cooking for extra depth. Lemon juice is key for taste. It adds brightness and balances the salad's flavors. If the salad seems flat, add more lemon juice to enhance the zing. Adding fresh herbs makes a huge difference. Use parsley and mint for freshness. You can also try basil or dill for a twist. Don’t be shy; herbs add layers of flavor. Finally, adjust salt and pepper. Always taste as you mix. If it needs more seasoning, add it in small amounts. This way, you get the perfect balance that suits your palate. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_2}} You can easily change up this salad to suit your taste. - Alternatives for feta cheese: Try goat cheese or vegan cheese. Both options add creaminess. - Other vegetables to include: Bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts add flavor and color. - Different dressings to try: A balsamic vinaigrette or tahini dressing can change the taste. If you have special dietary needs, this salad can adapt well. - Vegan adaptations: Leave out the feta cheese and use a vegan dressing. - Gluten-free options: Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, so this recipe works great. - Low-carb versions: Use cauliflower rice instead of quinoa for a low-carb twist. Feel free to explore these swaps and adaptations to create your perfect Mediterranean Quinoa Salad! You can find the Full Recipe above for more details. To keep your Mediterranean quinoa salad fresh, proper storage is key. Here’s how to do it: - Storing in the refrigerator: Place the salad in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for days. Make sure to cover it well to avoid drying out. - Freezing options: You can freeze the salad, but I recommend doing this without the dressing. The veggies may become mushy when thawed. Use freezer-safe bags or containers for the best results. - Best containers for storage: Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers. They seal well and help keep flavors intact. How long does this salad last? In the fridge, it stays good for about 3 to 5 days. It’s best to eat it fresh, but it can last a little longer. What about signs of spoilage? Look for changes in color or smell. If the salad develops an off odor or the veggies look slimy, it’s time to toss it. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety. How long does quinoa take to cook? Quinoa takes about 15 minutes to cook. Bring water or broth to a boil. Add rinsed quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer. Once the liquid is absorbed, it's done! Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! This salad tastes even better after sitting. Make it a day ahead for great flavor. Just store it in the fridge. What can I serve with Mediterranean Quinoa Salad? This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it alongside hummus and pita for a full meal. Why is my quinoa mushy? Mushy quinoa often means it had too much water. Use a 2:1 liquid to quinoa ratio. Make sure to rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove excess starch. How to add more protein? You can add chickpeas or black beans for protein. Grilled chicken or shrimp also works well. Feta cheese adds some protein too! Tips if the salad tastes bland. If the salad is bland, add more salt or lemon juice. Fresh herbs can boost flavor, too. Try mixing in some spices like cumin or paprika. How to double or halve the recipe? To double the recipe, simply double all the ingredients. To halve it, cut each ingredient in half. The cooking times will stay the same. Adjusting cooking times for larger portions. Cooking times for quinoa won’t change much. Just ensure you have enough liquid. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. This guide shows you how to make a tasty Mediterranean quinoa salad. You learned the key ingredients, steps for cooking, and tips for mixing the salad. You also discovered variations to suit your taste and how to store your salad. Incorporating fresh ingredients makes the dish bright and healthy. Enjoy your delicious creation and don’t be afraid to get creative! The more you experiment, the better it gets.](https://cheftaling.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/0be730bd-9760-48b9-a761-37a8198b680a.webp)
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Quinoa is the star of this dish. It’s a whole grain packed with protein and fiber. You can rinse the quinoa to remove any bitter taste. For this salad, using vegetable broth adds more flavor. The broth or water makes it fluffy and tasty.
Next, we have fresh vegetables. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. The cucumber gives a nice crunch. Red onion adds a bit of zing. Kalamata olives give a salty kick. Feta cheese brings creaminess to the mix. Fresh parsley and mint leaves give a burst of freshness.
The dressing is simple and bright. Olive oil and lemon juice make it tangy. Salt and pepper add the right touch. This balance makes the salad lively.
Nutritional Information
This salad is healthy and full of good nutrients. Quinoa has protein, fiber, and B vitamins. The vegetables bring vitamins and minerals. Feta offers calcium, while olives provide healthy fats.
Servings and Portions
This recipe makes about four servings. It’s perfect for lunch or as a side dish. You can easily double it for a bigger crowd. Enjoy it fresh or let it chill in the fridge for later.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Quinoa
1. Bringing the liquid to a boil: Start by pouring 2 cups of vegetable broth or water into a medium saucepan. Turn the heat to high and let it come to a rolling boil.
2. Simmering instructions: Once boiling, add 1 cup of rinsed quinoa. Stir it once, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for about 15 minutes. Check if the liquid is absorbed.
3. Cooling the quinoa: After cooking, remove the pot from heat. Transfer the quinoa to a large bowl and let it cool down. This helps keep the salad fresh and tasty.
Mixing the Salad
1. Combining ingredients for the salad: In the large bowl with cooled quinoa, add the following:
- ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 diced cucumber
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
- ½ cup pitted and halved Kalamata olives
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup chopped fresh mint leaves
2. Making the dressing: In a small bowl, mix together:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Tossing and combining everything: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until the flavors blend.
Finalizing the Dish
1. Adjusting seasoning: Taste your salad and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. This step makes sure every bite is full of flavor.
2. Refrigeration time: Cover the salad and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to mix and get even better.
3. Presentation tips: Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates. Garnish with extra feta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful look. Enjoy your Mediterranean quinoa salad!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Quinoa
To make quinoa great, start with rinsing. Rinse the quinoa under cold water. This step helps remove the bitter coating called saponins. It takes just a minute, but it makes a big difference.
For cooking, I suggest using vegetable broth. Broth adds rich flavor compared to plain water. If you prefer water, that works too, but you might want to add salt.
To enhance flavor, try toasting the quinoa. Heat it in a dry pan for a few minutes. This brings out a nutty taste. You can also add spices like garlic powder or a bay leaf during cooking for extra depth.
Flavor Balance
Lemon juice is key for taste. It adds brightness and balances the salad’s flavors. If the salad seems flat, add more lemon juice to enhance the zing.
Adding fresh herbs makes a huge difference. Use parsley and mint for freshness. You can also try basil or dill for a twist. Don’t be shy; herbs add layers of flavor.
Finally, adjust salt and pepper. Always taste as you mix. If it needs more seasoning, add it in small amounts. This way, you get the perfect balance that suits your palate.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change up this salad to suit your taste.
- Alternatives for feta cheese: Try goat cheese or vegan cheese. Both options add creaminess.
- Other vegetables to include: Bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts add flavor and color.
- Different dressings to try: A balsamic vinaigrette or tahini dressing can change the taste.
Dietary Considerations
If you have special dietary needs, this salad can adapt well.
- Vegan adaptations: Leave out the feta cheese and use a vegan dressing.
- Gluten-free options: Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, so this recipe works great.
- Low-carb versions: Use cauliflower rice instead of quinoa for a low-carb twist.
Feel free to explore these swaps and adaptations to create your perfect Mediterranean Quinoa Salad!
Storage Info
Proper Storage Methods
To keep your Mediterranean quinoa salad fresh, proper storage is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Storing in the refrigerator: Place the salad in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for days. Make sure to cover it well to avoid drying out.
- Freezing options: You can freeze the salad, but I recommend doing this without the dressing. The veggies may become mushy when thawed. Use freezer-safe bags or containers for the best results.
- Best containers for storage: Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers. They seal well and help keep flavors intact.
Shelf Life
How long does this salad last? In the fridge, it stays good for about 3 to 5 days. It’s best to eat it fresh, but it can last a little longer.
What about signs of spoilage? Look for changes in color or smell. If the salad develops an off odor or the veggies look slimy, it’s time to toss it. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety.
FAQs
Common Questions
How long does quinoa take to cook?
Quinoa takes about 15 minutes to cook. Bring water or broth to a boil. Add rinsed quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer. Once the liquid is absorbed, it’s done!
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better after sitting. Make it a day ahead for great flavor. Just store it in the fridge.
What can I serve with Mediterranean Quinoa Salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it alongside hummus and pita for a full meal.
Troubleshooting
Why is my quinoa mushy?
Mushy quinoa often means it had too much water. Use a 2:1 liquid to quinoa ratio. Make sure to rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove excess starch.
How to add more protein?
You can add chickpeas or black beans for protein. Grilled chicken or shrimp also works well. Feta cheese adds some protein too!
Tips if the salad tastes bland.
If the salad is bland, add more salt or lemon juice. Fresh herbs can boost flavor, too. Try mixing in some spices like cumin or paprika.
Recipe Scaling
How to double or halve the recipe?
To double the recipe, simply double all the ingredients. To halve it, cut each ingredient in half. The cooking times will stay the same.
Adjusting cooking times for larger portions.
Cooking times for quinoa won’t change much. Just ensure you have enough liquid. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
This guide shows you how to make a tasty Mediterranean quinoa salad. You learned the key ingredients, steps for cooking, and tips for mixing the salad. You also discovered variations to suit your taste and how to store your salad.
Incorporating fresh ingredients makes the dish bright and healthy. Enjoy your delicious creation and don’t be afraid to get creative! The more you experiment, the better it gets.
![- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed - 2 cups vegetable broth or water - ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cucumber, diced - ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped - ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved - ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled - ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped - ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped - 3 tablespoons olive oil - Juice of 1 lemon - Salt and pepper to taste Quinoa is the star of this dish. It’s a whole grain packed with protein and fiber. You can rinse the quinoa to remove any bitter taste. For this salad, using vegetable broth adds more flavor. The broth or water makes it fluffy and tasty. Next, we have fresh vegetables. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. The cucumber gives a nice crunch. Red onion adds a bit of zing. Kalamata olives give a salty kick. Feta cheese brings creaminess to the mix. Fresh parsley and mint leaves give a burst of freshness. The dressing is simple and bright. Olive oil and lemon juice make it tangy. Salt and pepper add the right touch. This balance makes the salad lively. This salad is healthy and full of good nutrients. Quinoa has protein, fiber, and B vitamins. The vegetables bring vitamins and minerals. Feta offers calcium, while olives provide healthy fats. This recipe makes about four servings. It’s perfect for lunch or as a side dish. You can easily double it for a bigger crowd. Enjoy it fresh or let it chill in the fridge for later. Check out the [Full Recipe] for more details on how to make this delicious dish! 1. Bringing the liquid to a boil: Start by pouring 2 cups of vegetable broth or water into a medium saucepan. Turn the heat to high and let it come to a rolling boil. 2. Simmering instructions: Once boiling, add 1 cup of rinsed quinoa. Stir it once, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for about 15 minutes. Check if the liquid is absorbed. 3. Cooling the quinoa: After cooking, remove the pot from heat. Transfer the quinoa to a large bowl and let it cool down. This helps keep the salad fresh and tasty. 1. Combining ingredients for the salad: In the large bowl with cooled quinoa, add the following: - ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes - 1 diced cucumber - ¼ cup finely chopped red onion - ½ cup pitted and halved Kalamata olives - ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese - ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley - ¼ cup chopped fresh mint leaves 2. Making the dressing: In a small bowl, mix together: - 3 tablespoons olive oil - Juice of 1 lemon - Salt and pepper to taste Whisk until smooth and well combined. 3. Tossing and combining everything: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until the flavors blend. 1. Adjusting seasoning: Taste your salad and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. This step makes sure every bite is full of flavor. 2. Refrigeration time: Cover the salad and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to mix and get even better. 3. Presentation tips: Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates. Garnish with extra feta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful look. Enjoy your Mediterranean quinoa salad! For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To make quinoa great, start with rinsing. Rinse the quinoa under cold water. This step helps remove the bitter coating called saponins. It takes just a minute, but it makes a big difference. For cooking, I suggest using vegetable broth. Broth adds rich flavor compared to plain water. If you prefer water, that works too, but you might want to add salt. To enhance flavor, try toasting the quinoa. Heat it in a dry pan for a few minutes. This brings out a nutty taste. You can also add spices like garlic powder or a bay leaf during cooking for extra depth. Lemon juice is key for taste. It adds brightness and balances the salad's flavors. If the salad seems flat, add more lemon juice to enhance the zing. Adding fresh herbs makes a huge difference. Use parsley and mint for freshness. You can also try basil or dill for a twist. Don’t be shy; herbs add layers of flavor. Finally, adjust salt and pepper. Always taste as you mix. If it needs more seasoning, add it in small amounts. This way, you get the perfect balance that suits your palate. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_2}} You can easily change up this salad to suit your taste. - Alternatives for feta cheese: Try goat cheese or vegan cheese. Both options add creaminess. - Other vegetables to include: Bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts add flavor and color. - Different dressings to try: A balsamic vinaigrette or tahini dressing can change the taste. If you have special dietary needs, this salad can adapt well. - Vegan adaptations: Leave out the feta cheese and use a vegan dressing. - Gluten-free options: Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, so this recipe works great. - Low-carb versions: Use cauliflower rice instead of quinoa for a low-carb twist. Feel free to explore these swaps and adaptations to create your perfect Mediterranean Quinoa Salad! You can find the Full Recipe above for more details. To keep your Mediterranean quinoa salad fresh, proper storage is key. Here’s how to do it: - Storing in the refrigerator: Place the salad in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for days. Make sure to cover it well to avoid drying out. - Freezing options: You can freeze the salad, but I recommend doing this without the dressing. The veggies may become mushy when thawed. Use freezer-safe bags or containers for the best results. - Best containers for storage: Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers. They seal well and help keep flavors intact. How long does this salad last? In the fridge, it stays good for about 3 to 5 days. It’s best to eat it fresh, but it can last a little longer. What about signs of spoilage? Look for changes in color or smell. If the salad develops an off odor or the veggies look slimy, it’s time to toss it. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety. How long does quinoa take to cook? Quinoa takes about 15 minutes to cook. Bring water or broth to a boil. Add rinsed quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer. Once the liquid is absorbed, it's done! Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! This salad tastes even better after sitting. Make it a day ahead for great flavor. Just store it in the fridge. What can I serve with Mediterranean Quinoa Salad? This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it alongside hummus and pita for a full meal. Why is my quinoa mushy? Mushy quinoa often means it had too much water. Use a 2:1 liquid to quinoa ratio. Make sure to rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove excess starch. How to add more protein? You can add chickpeas or black beans for protein. Grilled chicken or shrimp also works well. Feta cheese adds some protein too! Tips if the salad tastes bland. If the salad is bland, add more salt or lemon juice. Fresh herbs can boost flavor, too. Try mixing in some spices like cumin or paprika. How to double or halve the recipe? To double the recipe, simply double all the ingredients. To halve it, cut each ingredient in half. The cooking times will stay the same. Adjusting cooking times for larger portions. Cooking times for quinoa won’t change much. Just ensure you have enough liquid. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. This guide shows you how to make a tasty Mediterranean quinoa salad. You learned the key ingredients, steps for cooking, and tips for mixing the salad. You also discovered variations to suit your taste and how to store your salad. Incorporating fresh ingredients makes the dish bright and healthy. Enjoy your delicious creation and don’t be afraid to get creative! The more you experiment, the better it gets.](https://cheftaling.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/0be730bd-9760-48b9-a761-37a8198b680a-250x250.webp)
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