Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Feta (Printable)
Fluffy quinoa, fresh vegetables, feta, and lemon-oregano dressing combine for a bright, light dish.
# Ingredient List:
→ Quinoa
01 - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Vegetables
04 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - 1 medium cucumber, diced
06 - 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
07 - 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
08 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
09 - 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
→ Cheese
10 - 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
→ Dressing
11 - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
12 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
13 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
14 - 1 garlic clove, minced
15 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
16 - Additional salt, to taste
# How to Make:
01 - Combine the quinoa, water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool to room temperature.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, parsley, and mint if using.
03 - Whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, black pepper, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl or jar until fully combined.
04 - Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to evenly coat all ingredients.
05 - Fold in the crumbled feta cheese carefully to maintain texture.
06 - Taste and adjust with additional salt or lemon juice as desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- This salad combines fluffy quinoa with crisp vegetables and briny feta in a way that feels like a secret handshake for flavor lovers
- The tangy lemon-oregano dressing is so refreshing it became my go-to for quick meals and side dishes
02 -
- Letting the quinoa cool completely before adding veggies prevents wilt and keeps the salad vibrant
- Using fresh lemon juice rather than store-bought makes a surprising difference in the brightness of the dressing
03 -
- Toast the quinoa lightly before cooking for a nuttier depth of flavor
- Chilling the salad for at least an hour helps meld flavors and improves the overall taste