Pin It A vibrant, refreshing salad featuring fluffy quinoa, crisp vegetables, briny feta cheese, and a zesty lemon-oregano dressing Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or picnic favorite
This salad quickly became a staple in my summer meals, loved by family and friends alike
Ingredients
- Quinoa: 1 cup 180 g quinoa rinsed
- Water or vegetable broth: 2 cups 480 ml
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup 150 g, halved
- Cucumber: 1 cup 150 g, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1/2 cup 75 g, diced
- Red onion: 1/4 cup 30 g, finely chopped
- Kalamata olives: 1/4 cup 40 g, pitted and sliced
- Feta cheese: 3/4 cup 100 g, crumbled
- Fresh parsley: 1/4 cup 10 g, chopped
- Fresh mint: 2 tbsp 6 g, chopped
- Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tbsp 45 ml
- Fresh lemon juice: 2 tbsp 30 ml
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp 2 g
- Garlic: 1 small clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Combine quinoa and water (or broth) in a medium saucepan Bring to a boil reduce heat to low cover and simmer for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed Remove from heat fluff with a fork and let cool to room temperature
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl combine cooled quinoa cherry tomatoes cucumber red bell pepper red onion olives feta parsley and mint
- Step 3:
- In a small bowl whisk together olive oil lemon juice oregano minced garlic salt and black pepper
- Step 4:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine Adjust seasoning to taste
- Step 5:
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 1 hour to allow flavors to meld
Pin It This salad has been a highlight at many of our family picnics and gatherings bringing everyone together
Required Tools
Medium saucepan Large mixing bowl Small bowl Whisk or fork Chefs knife Cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (feta cheese) Olives may be processed in facilities handling nuts—check packaging if necessary Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies or intolerances
Nutritional Information
Calories 295 Total Fat 14 g Carbohydrates 32 g Protein 10 g per serving
Pin It Enjoy this healthy salad fresh for best flavor or chill overnight for enhanced taste
Questions About This Recipe
- → How do I cook quinoa properly?
Rinse quinoa thoroughly, then simmer in water or broth for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and cool before mixing with other ingredients.
- → Can I substitute feta cheese?
Yes, plant-based cheese alternatives or tofu can be used to maintain creaminess and flavor while adapting to dietary needs.
- → What dressing ingredients are used?
The dressing combines extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper for a zesty, herbaceous finish.
- → How long can the salad be stored?
Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. The flavors meld over time but vegetables may soften, so store dressing separately if preferred.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, quinoa and fresh ingredients ensure this dish is naturally gluten-free and suitable for gluten intolerance.
- → What are great serving suggestions?
Serve chilled as a light lunch, side dish, or picnic option. It pairs well with crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc.