Greek Quinoa Salad: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Dish

There’s just something about a refreshing Greek Quinoa Salad that instantly brightens my day! This salad is not only a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors, but it’s also packed with nutritious ingredients that make it a go-to choice for lunch or dinner. I first stumbled upon this delightful dish at a charming Mediterranean restaurant during a summer road trip. The combination of fluffy quinoa, crisp veggies, and tangy feta blew me away! I couldn’t believe something so flavorful could be so healthy.

What I love most about this Greek Quinoa Salad is how quick and easy it is to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients and about 30 minutes of your time, you can create a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing. It’s perfect for meal prep too; I often make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients List

• 2 cups water
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed well under cold water to remove bitterness
• Pinch of salt
• 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved for a burst of flavor
• 1 English cucumber, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, halved for a savory touch
• 1/3 cup diced red onion for a little crunch
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, adding creaminess and tang
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/3 cup olive oil, for richness
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, to brighten the flavors
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, for that zesty kick
• 1 teaspoon honey, balancing the acidity
• 1 clove garlic, minced for a hint of warmth
• 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard, adding depth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano, for that Mediterranean flair
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Prepare Greek Quinoa Salad

Making this Greek Quinoa Salad is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love how simple it is! Just follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a deliciously refreshing dish ready in no time.

Step 1: Rinse the Quinoa

Start by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water using a fine strainer. This step is crucial because it helps to wash away any bitterness from the quinoa’s natural coating called saponin. Trust me, this little step makes a big difference in flavor!

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

Next, grab a medium saucepan and combine your rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Turn the heat to medium and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, let it cook for about 5 minutes. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until all the water is absorbed. When it’s done, fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

While your quinoa is cooling, let’s whip up the dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of honey, 1 minced clove of garlic, 1/4 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This zesty dressing is going to bring all the flavors together!

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix your cooled quinoa with the halved grape tomatoes, chopped cucumber, halved kalamata olives, diced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss everything together so that the flavors mingle beautifully.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve

Finally, drizzle your homemade dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. You can serve it immediately or chill it in the fridge for a while to let those flavors really shine. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

This Greek Quinoa Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving: it contains about 279 calories, 18 grams of fat (with 4 grams being saturated fat), and 6 grams of protein. You’ll also get 24 grams of carbohydrates, along with 3 grams of fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied. With just 3 grams of sugar and 325 milligrams of sodium, this salad is a fantastic choice for a light meal or a side dish. Remember, these numbers are estimates, so they can vary based on ingredient brands and quantities used!

FAQ Section

Can I make Greek Quinoa Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll keep well for up to three days. Yum!

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, try using crumbled vegan cheese or even avocado for a creamy texture. Both options are delicious and keep that Mediterranean vibe alive!

How long does Greek Quinoa Salad last?

This salad can last in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep. Just be sure to keep it stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness!

Can I add protein to the salad?

Definitely! You can toss in some grilled chicken for a heartier meal or add chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost. Both options will complement the flavors nicely!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with fresh vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, this salad is a powerhouse of nutrients!
• Quick and Simple: You can whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or meal prep.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of zesty dressing, creamy feta, and crunchy veggies creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or a main course, and you can easily customize it to your taste!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: It stores well in the fridge, allowing the flavors to deepen – enjoy it even days later!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Greek Quinoa Salad turns out perfectly every time, start with high-quality ingredients. Fresh, ripe vegetables enhance flavor, so don’t skimp on those! When cooking quinoa, make sure to use a fine strainer for rinsing—it really helps eliminate that bitterness. Another trick is to let the quinoa cool completely before mixing in the veggies; this keeps everything crisp and fresh. Don’t be afraid to adjust the dressing to match your taste, adding more lemon juice or honey as you see fit. And remember, this salad only gets better as it sits, so give it some time to marinate in the fridge before serving!

Variations

One of the best things about this Greek Quinoa Salad is how versatile it is! Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. For a bolder crunch, add bell peppers or radishes, and if you want a bit of sweetness, throw in some diced apples or mango. You can also experiment with different dressings—try a tahini-based dressing for a nutty flavor or a balsamic vinaigrette for a twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in some cooked chickpeas or grilled shrimp for added protein. The possibilities are endless, and each variation will give you a delightful new take on this classic dish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store your Greek Quinoa Salad, simply transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to three days! If you prefer to enjoy it warm, just give it a quick reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds. But honestly, this salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so I usually just enjoy it straight from the fridge. Yum!

What to Serve with Greek Quinoa Salad

This Greek Quinoa Salad is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with several dishes! Serve it alongside grilled chicken or lamb for a heartier meal. I also love it with roasted vegetables or a warm pita bread for a Mediterranean feast. For a light lunch, enjoy it with a side of tzatziki sauce or a simple hummus dip. And don’t forget a glass of chilled white wine to complete the experience!

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