Course lunch, Main Course, Meal Prep, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American (Copycat Recipes), American, Mediterranean, greek, Middle Eastern
Servings 6people
Calories 300kcal
Ingredients
1cupquinoared and white blend preferred
2cupswater or vegetable broth
1English cucumberdiced
1½cupscherry tomatoeshalved
½red onionfinely diced
¼cupKalamata olivessliced
½cupcrumbled feta cheese
½cupfresh parsleychopped
2tablespoonsfresh mintchopped
Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
¼cupextra virgin olive oil
1garlic cloveminced
½teaspoondried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepperto taste
Instructions
Cook the Quinoa:
Rinse quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water (or broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs:
While quinoa cools, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely dice the red onion, and chop the parsley and mint.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chopped vegetables, herbs, sliced olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve:
Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
This salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Feel free to add grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein.