1. Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients: 1 cup of quinoa 2 cups of water 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1/2 cup cucumber, diced 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons of lemon juice 1 teaspoon of dried oregano Salt and black pepper to taste Fresh basil leaves for garnish Optional: 1/4 cup of roasted red peppers, chopped Optional: 1/4 cup of artichoke hearts, quartered.
2. Preparation
Here's how to prepare the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly and combine it with water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until quinoa is tender. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool to room temperature. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and red onion. Toss the ingredients together to mix evenly. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad. Drizzle with your favorite Mediterranean dressing or a simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.
3. Assembly
Now, assemble the salad. Gently fold the ingredients to combine them. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed with salt and pepper. Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, give it a final toss to ensure even distribution of flavors. You can add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness. Consider adding a handful of toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch. Serve chilled, garnished with extra feta and olives, if desired. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad for a zesty dressing. Mix in the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to taste. Add roasted red peppers and artichoke hearts for extra Mediterranean flair. If you prefer a creamier salad, a dollop of Greek yogurt or tahini can be a delicious addition. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the salad just before serving for a burst of freshness. Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or halloumi instead of feta. Customize the salad's texture by chopping vegetables finely for a more uniform mix or leaving them chunkier for a rustic feel. Serve it on a bed of fresh spinach or arugula for a more substantial meal. Pair the salad with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing minty iced tea. Consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Experiment with different types of olives, such as green or Castelvetrano olives. For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese and use a plant-based alternative. Share your Mediterranean Quinoa Salad on social media to inspire others to enjoy this healthy and flavorful dish.
4. Serving
Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Quinoa Salad. This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad makes a perfect standalone meal for a light lunch or dinner. It's also a great side dish to accompany grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. Serve it at picnics, potlucks, or as a healthy work lunch. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a day or two. Customize the salad with your favorite Mediterranean ingredients like artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or capers. Enjoy the refreshing combination of flavors and textures in every bite. Share this delicious and nutritious salad with friends and family to spread the joy of Mediterranean cuisine.
