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Fresh Quinoa Salad

A colorful, protein-packed bowl with nutty quinoa, crisp vegetables, and zesty dressing that comes together in just 15 minutes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 large cucumber, diced
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Method
 

  1. Place rinsed quinoa and water in a medium saucepan over high heat. Once it reaches a rolling boil, reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 12-15 minutes until liquid has absorbed completely and quinoa appears fluffy with visible white rings. Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
  2. While quinoa cools to room temperature, dice cucumber into uniform half-inch pieces. Chop tomatoes into similar-sized chunks. Finely dice the red onion and roughly chop the fresh herbs.
  3. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until mixture becomes slightly thick and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Add cooled quinoa to a large mixing bowl along with all prepared vegetables and herbs. Pour dressing over mixture and toss gently but thoroughly. Add crumbled feta last, folding it in carefully to maintain chunky pieces.

Notes

This salad tastes better after the flavors meld together. Cook quinoa in batches over the weekend for 5-minute assembly. Store in refrigerator for up to 4 days - flavors improve overnight. Always rinse quinoa to remove bitter saponins. Don't add dressing to warm quinoa to avoid soggy texture.