Name: 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa (rinsed); 2 cups water or vegetable broth; 1 medium cucumber (diced); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); ½ medium red onion (finely chopped); ½ cup feta cheese (crumbled); ½ cup Kalamata olives (sliced); ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped); Juice of 1 lemon; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

There’s something truly magical about a colorful bowl of 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad. Picture this: fluffy quinoa, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty dressing all come together to create a dish that not only pleases the palate but also dazzles the eyes. The crunch of fresh cucumbers, the juiciness of ripe tomatoes, and the briny burst of feta cheese make this salad a flavor-packed journey that transports you straight to a sunny Mediterranean beach. For more inspiration, check out this savory grilled salmon recipe.

I remember the first time I made this salad – it was during one of those summer evenings when I swore I’d never turn on my oven again. Instead, I opted for something quick, refreshing, and healthy. As I tossed those ingredients together, my kitchen filled with a delightful aroma that made my taste buds dance with anticipation. Perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or simply as a light dinner after a long day, this salad is versatile enough to fit any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This dish is incredibly easy to whip up in just 30 minutes.
It bursts with fresh flavors that will brighten your day.
The visual appeal is undeniable with its array of colors and textures.
Plus, you can customize it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

Ingredients for 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Quinoa: This nutty grain is the star of the show; rinse it well before cooking to remove any bitterness.
Cucumber: Choose firm cucumbers for crunch; peel them if you prefer a softer texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: These bite-sized beauties add sweetness; halving them releases their juicy goodness.
Red Onion: A little goes a long way; finely chop for a sharp kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tang; opt for high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
Kalamata Olives: These salty gems are essential for authenticity; pit them if using whole olives.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens up the dish; use flat-leaf parsley for more flavor.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings acidity and freshness; bottled juice won’t do!
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for richness; it’ll enhance all those fresh flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Start by rinsing one cup of quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer – goodbye bitter taste! In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with two cups of water or vegetable broth (for extra flavor). Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes until all liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.

Step 2: Prepare Your Veggies

While your quinoa cooks, grab your trusty chopping board and dice up one cucumber into small cubes. Halve about one cup of cherry tomatoes and finely chop half a red onion (wear sunglasses if you must – onions can be tear-jerkers!). Toss these colorful veggies into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Add Feta and Olives

Next up, crumble about half a cup of feta cheese over your veggie mix (try not to eat it all before it makes it into the bowl). Slice around half a cup of Kalamata olives and toss them in as well. Feel free to adjust quantities according to your taste!

Step 4: Whip Up the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar (hello, easy cleanup!), mix together three tablespoons of olive oil and juice from one lemon. Season generously with salt and pepper – remember that seasoning is key! If you’re feeling fancy, add some oregano or garlic powder too.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your quinoa has finished cooking (it should look fluffy and slightly translucent), let it cool slightly before adding it to your veggie mixture. Pour over your lemony dressing and give everything a good toss until combined – think salad dance party here!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your beautiful Mediterranean quinoa salad onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with extra parsley if you wish – it’s like sprinkles but for salads! Enjoy immediately or chill in the fridge for about half an hour for flavors that meld even more beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe.

And there you have it! A vibrant and satisfying meal ready in just thirty minutes. Serve it as an appetizer at gatherings or enjoy as part of your lunch prep throughout the week – it’s perfect either way!

You Must Know

This incredible 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is not just a burst of flavor; it’s a kaleidoscope of colors and textures that will make your taste buds dance.
With its healthy ingredients, meal prep becomes effortless, perfect for any occasion from picnics to meal prep Sundays.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create the perfect 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad, start by cooking the quinoa according to package instructions while you chop up your veggies. Then mix everything together with your dressing for an efficient and delicious result.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this salad! Swap out the cherry tomatoes for roasted red peppers, or add some feta cheese for that extra zing. The possibilities are endless with this versatile dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to reheat it, just pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds, but it’s also delightful cold!

Chef's Helpful Tips

To keep your quinoa fluffy, rinse it under cold water before cooking.
For added flavor, toast the quinoa in a dry pan before boiling it.
Lastly, let the salad sit for about 10 minutes after mixing to allow flavors to meld together.

Sometimes, I whip up this 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad when friends drop by unexpectedly—it’s always a hit! Just last week, my buddy exclaimed it was like a party in his mouth. Who knew quinoa could be so popular?

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for the 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad?

To prepare the 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad, you will need quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and fresh parsley. For the dressing, gather olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients come together to create a refreshing and nutritious salad that is perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch.

How long does it take to make the 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad?

As the name suggests, this salad takes just about 30 minutes to prepare. Cooking the quinoa takes around 15 minutes. While it cooks, you can chop your vegetables and prepare the dressing. In no time at all, you’ll have a vibrant and delicious salad ready to enjoy. It’s an ideal dish for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.

Can I customize the 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad?

Absolutely! The beauty of the 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad lies in its versatility. Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You might consider adding chickpeas for extra protein or avocados for creaminess. Adjusting spices and herbs can also elevate the flavor profile to match your taste.

Is the 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad healthy?

Yes! The 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is packed with nutrients. Quinoa is a complete protein source and rich in fiber. Fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals while healthy fats come from olives and olive oil. olive chimichurri steak recipe Overall, this salad offers a balanced meal option that supports a healthy lifestyle without compromising on taste.

Conclusion for 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad :

In summary, the 30-Min Mediterranean Quinoa Salad combines wholesome ingredients into a quick and easy dish perfect for any occasion. With just thirty minutes of preparation time, you can enjoy a fresh and flavorful meal packed with nutrients. chicken shawarma for Mediterranean flair Whether you customize it or follow the recipe closely, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. chicken caprese for a fresh flavor Enjoy it as a light lunch or serve it as a side dish at gatherings!