Description
A vibrant and healthy Mediterranean Quinoa Salad packed with protein and fiber from quinoa, fresh vegetables, and zesty herbs. Perfect for a quick lunch or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook quinoa: Combine rinsed quinoa and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until water is absorbed. Let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Prepare vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, and halved Kalamata olives.
- Add herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and mint.
- Make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Add the cooked quinoa to the bowl with the vegetables and herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Serve immediately or chill for later.
Notes
- Ensure quinoa is fully cooked and fluffed before adding to the salad.
- Adjust lemon juice and seasonings to your preference.
- This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook (for dressing)
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Mediterranean Quinoa Salad, Quinoa salad, Mediterranean quinoa, healthy meal prep salad, vegetarian quinoa, protein-rich salad, lemon vinaigrette, quick salad, healthy lunch