Greek Quinoa Salad

Greek Quinoa Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Greek Quinoa Salad:

1. Cook the Quinoa:

• Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water.
• In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and water is absorbed.
• Remove from heat and let it cool.

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

• While the quinoa is cooling, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the Kalamata olives, chop the red onion, crumble the feta cheese, and chop the fresh parsley and mint.

1. Assemble the Salad:

• In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped mint.

1. Make the Dressing:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

1. Combine and Toss:

• Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture.
• Gently toss everything together until well combined, ensuring the dressing evenly coats the ingredients.

1. Chill and Serve:

• Refrigerate the Greek Quinoa Salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
• Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing and flavorful Greek-inspired salad!

Recipe Notes & Tips:

• Customize the salad by adding diced bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or even grilled chicken for extra protein.
• Adjust the quantities of herbs and cheese according to your taste preferences.
• This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a quick and healthy meal option. Just wait to add the dressing until serving.