Imagine a vibrant, refreshing salad that transports you straight to the sun-drenched coastlines of the Mediterranean with just one bite! This Mediterranean Herb Quinoa Salad is not just a dish; it's a culinary adventure packed with nutrition, flavor, and pure deliciousness. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or someone looking to add excitement to your meal routine, this recipe promises to be your new go-to summer favorite that will impress both family and friends.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water to remove its natural bitter coating.
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- Remove quinoa from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff with a fork and transfer to a large mixing bowl to cool completely.
- While quinoa is cooling, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red onion, and chop the fresh parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red onion, chopped parsley, and sliced olives to the cooled quinoa.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove its natural bitter coating and ensure a clean, nutty flavor.
- Use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking quinoa to enhance its taste profile.
- Allow quinoa to cool completely before mixing with vegetables to prevent wilting and maintain crisp textures.
- For best flavor, let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow ingredients to marinate.
- Use fresh, high-quality olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice for the most authentic Mediterranean taste.
- Feel free to customize by adding feta cheese, grilled chicken, or additional herbs like mint or oregano.
- This salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it perfect for meal prep and quick lunches.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
