Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Lemon (Printable)

Quinoa blends with fresh vegetables, feta, and a tangy lemon-oregano dressing for a flavorful, satisfying meal.

# What's Needed:

→ Grains

01 - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
02 - 2 cups water or vegetable broth

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
04 - 1 medium cucumber, diced
05 - 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
06 - 1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced
07 - 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

→ Cheese

08 - 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

→ Herbs

09 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
10 - 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped

→ Dressing

11 - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
12 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
13 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
14 - 1 garlic clove, minced
15 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
16 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# How to Make It:

01 - Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh sieve. Place quinoa and water or vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat; keep covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, parsley, and mint.
03 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until emulsified.
04 - Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to evenly coat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
05 - Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with additional herbs or feta before serving if desired.

# Tips for Success:

01 -
  • Light nourishing and filling so it works as a main or side
  • Naturally gluten free with loads of plant protein
  • Comes together fast with easy chopping and minimal cooking
  • Customizable with your choice of fresh herbs and vegetables
  • Keeps well for meal prep or lunch the next day
02 -
  • Protein packed and naturally gluten free fantastic for hearty vegetarians
  • Stays delicious for up to three days in the fridge
  • Bright feta and olives add classic Greek flavor
03 -
  • Rinsing quinoa carefully is vital for mild flavor
  • Whisk the dressing until completely emulsified before tossing
  • Taste as you go and tweak herbs or lemon for a punchy finish