Easy Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dressing
A vibrant, protein-packed quinoa salad bursting with Mediterranean flavors like cucumber, tomatoes, and olives, all tied together with a bright, zesty lemon-herb dressing. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a healthy weeknight side dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed well
- 2 cups water
- 1 medium cucumber diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint chopped
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled (optional)
Notes
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors improve over time. Make-Ahead: Prepare the quinoa and vegetables up to 2 days in advance. Store separately and combine with the dressing just before serving. Variations: Add chickpeas for extra protein, or substitute red quinoa for a different color and texture. For a dairy-free version, omit the feta cheese. Serving Suggestions: Serve as a light lunch, a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or as a filling for lettuce wraps.