Looking to add a burst of color and flavor to your meals? This Fresh Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is the perfect answer. Loaded with fresh veggies, fragrant herbs, and topped with a tangy lemon dressing, this salad combines health and taste in every bite. Whether you’re prepping for a casual lunch, a picnic, or a dinner party, this salad is versatile, easy to make, and incredibly nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

Quinoa, a protein-rich grain, is a great base for any salad. Paired with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and salty Kalamata olives, this salad is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The addition of fresh parsley, mint, and a zesty dressing elevates this dish, while a sprinkle of feta cheese adds just the right amount of creaminess.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

1 cup quinoa, rinsed and cooked: Quinoa is a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this salad filling and satisfying.
2 large cucumbers, diced: Adds a fresh crunch to the salad.
3 medium tomatoes, diced: For a juicy, tangy flavor that balances well with other ingredients.
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a bit of sharpness and depth.
1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved: Brings a salty, briny element that’s quintessentially Mediterranean.
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: For a fresh, peppery taste.
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped: Adds a cooling flavor that complements the lemon dressing.
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: A creamy, tangy addition that rounds out the flavors.
3 tablespoons olive oil: The base for the dressing, giving it a rich flavor.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: For a fresh, zesty tang.
Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and balances the flavors.

How to Make the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

This salad comes together in just a few simple steps:

Prepare the Quinoa
Cook the quinoa following the package instructions. Once done, fluff it with a fork and let it cool to room temperature. This helps the grains separate, ensuring a light, fluffy salad.
Prep the Vegetables
Dice the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces for easy eating. Thinly slice the red onion and halve the Kalamata olives. Chop the parsley and mint leaves for a fresh herbaceous kick.
Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the cooked quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, parsley, and mint. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top for a creamy, salty finish.
Dress the Salad
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad, and gently toss everything together, making sure each ingredient is coated.
Serve and Enjoy
This salad can be served immediately for a light, refreshing meal, or refrigerated for 15–20 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve it as a main dish or a side to grilled chicken, fish, or falafel.

Tips for the Best Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and mint make all the difference in this recipe, adding a burst of flavor that dried herbs simply can’t match.
Make it ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge, allowing the flavors to deepen.
Add extra toppings: For added texture, sprinkle in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds before serving.

Why This Salad is Good for You

Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also loaded with nutrients. Quinoa provides a complete protein source, while cucumbers and tomatoes offer hydration and antioxidants. The olives and olive oil are rich in heart-healthy fats, and the herbs bring vitamins and minerals into the mix. It’s a perfect dish for those looking to eat wholesome, balanced meals.

Wrapping Up

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, vibrant ingredients with minimal effort. It’s not only beautiful to look at but also offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen!

Fresh Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Author: Alice

Print Recipe

Description

Brighten up your meal with this vibrant and nutritious Mediterranean Quinoa Salad. Packed with fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a zesty dressing, it’s a delicious and wholesome choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup quinoa, rinsed and cooked
2 large cucumbers, diced
3 medium tomatoes, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Quinoa:

Cook the quinoa according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and let it cool.

Prep the Vegetables:

Dice the cucumbers and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
Thinly slice the red onion.
Halve the Kalamata olives.
Chop the fresh parsley and mint leaves.

Combine Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, red onion slices, olives, chopped parsley, and mint leaves.
Add the crumbled feta cheese.

Dress the Salad:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve:

Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy as a light main dish or refreshing side.

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