Fresh, colorful, and bursting with vibrant flavors, this Delightful Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a dish you’ll truly savor. Fluffy quinoa tossed with crisp vegetables, briny olives, creamy feta, and a bright lemon-olive oil dressing creates a nourishing salad that’s as satisfying as it is refreshing.
Perfect for meal prep, summer lunches, or a light dinner, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe delivers wholesome ingredients and bold taste in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
- Healthy & protein-packed with quinoa
- Fresh Mediterranean flavors
- Quick & easy to make
- Great for meal prep
- Naturally gluten-free
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ⅓ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Lemon Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How to Make Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
Rinse quinoa thoroughly. Combine quinoa and water (or broth) in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While quinoa cools, chop tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and herbs.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine quinoa, vegetables, olives, feta, and herbs.
Step 5: Toss & Serve
Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Tips & Variations
- Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra protein
- Swap feta for goat cheese
- Add roasted red peppers for sweetness
- Use mint for a refreshing twist
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Great for lunches and picnics
- Flavors deepen as it chills
Final Thoughts
This Delightful Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe is light yet satisfying, fresh yet hearty—a perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a main dish, it’s a recipe worth savoring again and again.
Healthy, vibrant, and absolutely delicious 🌿🥗