Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a light, protein-packed dish featuring fluffy quinoa, crisp vegetables, briny olives, and tangy feta tossed in a lemony olive oil dressing. Perfect for lunch, meal prep, or as a refreshing side.
- Author: Mariem
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a medium pot, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is tender and water is absorbed. Let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta, parsley, and mint if using.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Notes
- Use tri-color quinoa for extra color and texture.
- Can be made 1–2 days ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for more protein.
- To make it vegan, omit the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: quinoa salad, Mediterranean, healthy lunch, feta, olives, vegetarian, meal prep