Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Herb Dressing

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a big, bright, and bursting-with-flavor salad. This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. I created this recipe after a trip to Greece, completely captivated by the vibrant colors and incredible freshness of the local markets. The combination of fluffy quinoa, juicy tomatoes, salty feta, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing is simply divine. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

This salad is incredibly versatile – you can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking. Don’t be afraid to add other Mediterranean favorites like Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even grilled halloumi for a truly decadent experience. It’s fantastic for a light lunch, a summer BBQ, or even a colorful side dish for dinner.

Prep time can be surprisingly quick, especially if you use pre-cooked quinoa (which I highly recommend!). The lemon-herb dressing is where the magic happens – it’s bright, herbaceous, and really elevates the entire salad. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based protein into their diet. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Let’s get started and transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean!

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Healthy

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Herb Dressing

Author: Olivia Cooking Method: No-Cook Cuisine: Mediterranean Courses: Salads Recipe Keys: Vegetarian Meals

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 20 mins Rest Time 10 mins Total Time 30 mins

Calories: 350-400

Best Season: Summer, Spring, Fall

Dietary:

Gluten-Free High-Protein Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring fluffy quinoa, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy feta cheese, fresh herbs, and a bright, zesty lemon-herb dressing. This salad is packed with flavor, texture, and nutrients, offering a delicious and healthy meal option.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 200 grams Quinoa, uncooked
• 600 milliliters Water
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon Salt
• 200 grams Cherry Tomatoes, halved
• 100 grams Feta Cheese, crumbled
• ¹⁄₄ cup Fresh Mint Leaves, chopped
• ¹⁄₄ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
• ¹⁄₂ Lemon juiced
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 tablespoon Red Wine Vinegar
• 1 clove Garlic, minced
• Salt and Black Pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water for 1-2 minutes.
2. Combine the rinsed quinoa, 600ml water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
3. While the quinoa is cooling, prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, chopped mint, and chopped parsley.
5. Pour the lemon-herb dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Let the salad rest for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Note

• For a creamier dressing, add 1 tablespoon of Greek yogurt.
• You can substitute other herbs like basil or oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumber or bell peppers.

Keywords: Mediterranean, Quinoa, Salad, Healthy, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Lemon, Herbs, Fresh, Summer