As you take your first bite of Greek quinoa salad, the vibrant colors and fresh aromas dance around you, promising a delightful burst of flavors. Picture sun-ripened tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese mingling with fluffy quinoa, all drizzled with a zesty dressing that awakens your taste buds and transports you to a sun-drenched Mediterranean terrace.
This salad isn't just a dish; it's a celebration of good times—perfect for summer picnics or cozy family gatherings where laughter fills the air. Each mouthful is not only nourishing but also evokes memories of shared meals and cherished moments, making every forkful an adventure in flavor that leaves you craving more.
Why Will You Keep Making greek quinoa salad?
Packed with protein, this Greek Quinoa Salad is not just a dish; it’s a nutritional powerhouse that will keep you satisfied. Vibrant cherry tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers add freshness, while crumbled feta and kalamata olives introduce irresistible Mediterranean flavors. Effortless to prepare in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for meal prep or as a crowd-pleasing side at gatherings. Versatile, you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs, making it a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy this refreshing salad that brings everyone back for seconds!
Ingredients for greek quinoa salad
- For the Salad Base
- 1 cup quinoa (rinsed) – Quinoa adds a delightful nutty flavor and is packed with protein, making this salad both filling and nutritious.
- 2 cups water – This is needed to cook the quinoa perfectly, ensuring it’s fluffy and light.
- 1 cup cucumber (diced) – Fresh cucumbers offer a crisp texture and refreshing taste that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved) – Sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes burst with flavor, enhancing the overall freshness of the greek quinoa salad.
- ½ cup red onion (finely chopped) – The sharpness of red onion adds depth and a hint of sweetness when mixed with the dressing.
- 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled) – Creamy feta brings a tangy richness that perfectly balances the flavors in this vibrant salad.
- ½ cup kalamata olives (pitted and sliced) – These briny olives provide a delicious salty kick that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
- ¼ cup parsley (chopped) – Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and enhances the dish with its bright, herbaceous notes.
- For the Dressing
- ¼ cup olive oil – Extra virgin olive oil lends richness and a fruity flavor that’s essential in bringing all the components together.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar – The acidity from red wine vinegar brightens up the salad while adding a zesty punch to every bite.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – This aromatic herb infuses an earthy Mediterranean flavor that's fundamental to greek dishes.
- 1 clove garlic (minced) – Freshly minced garlic gives an aromatic boost to the dressing, enhancing its overall appeal.
- ½ teaspoon salt (to taste) – Adjusting salt levels will enhance all flavors; start with this amount and add more if desired.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (to taste) – A touch of black pepper adds warmth and subtle spice without overpowering the other flavors.
Directions: greek quinoa salad
1. Combine quinoa and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy and all water is absorbed.
2. Mix the salad in a large bowl by adding the cooked quinoa, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, sliced kalamata olives, and chopped parsley.
3. Whisk together the dressing in a small bowl by combining olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is coated nicely. Taste and adjust seasoning as you prefer for a touch of extra flavor.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow those vibrant flavors to meld beautifully together before enjoying.
Optional: Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pro Tips for greek quinoa salad
- Quinoa Perfection: Rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural bitterness, ensuring a pleasant flavor in your greek quinoa salad.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for the best texture and taste, elevating the freshness of your salad.
- Cheese Choice: Opt for high-quality feta cheese; it adds creaminess and a rich flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- Olive Oil Quality: Choose a good extra virgin olive oil for your dressing; it enhances the overall flavor profile of the greek quinoa salad.
- Chill Time: Letting the salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld together, improving taste and aroma.
- Seasoning Balance: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad; adjust salt and pepper as needed to avoid overpowering the dish.
How to Store and Freeze greek quinoa salad
- Fridge: Store your greek quinoa salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents sogginess.
- Freezer: While not ideal, you can freeze the salad without dressing for up to 1 month. Just be aware that some ingredients may lose their texture.
- Dressing: Keep the dressing separate in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. This helps maintain the crispness of the vegetables.
- Reheating: If you prefer it warm, gently reheat the quinoa on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.
greek quinoa salad Your Way
Feel free to customize this delightful dish to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Vegan: Substitute feta cheese with crumbled tofu or a dairy-free feta alternative for a plant-based twist. This keeps the creamy texture while ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
- Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dressing for an exciting heat that will awaken your palate. Just a little goes a long way in elevating the flavors!
- Herb Boost: Experiment with different fresh herbs like mint, dill, or basil instead of parsley for a unique aromatic experience. Each herb brings its own flair, making every bite feel like a mini adventure.
- Grain-Free: Swap quinoa for riced cauliflower if you're looking to reduce carbs but still want that satisfying texture. This swap gives you all the crunch without compromising on flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted almonds or walnuts for added texture and healthy fats. The nutty crunch complements the freshness of the vegetables beautifully.
- Extra Veggies: Mix in other veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost nutrition and color. The more vibrant your salad, the more enticing it becomes!
- Cheese Lovers: Try adding olives like feta-stuffed green olives or even goat cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Each bite becomes a delicious celebration of tastes!
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving for a refreshing citrus burst that brightens every ingredient. This simple addition enhances not only taste but also aroma!
Make Ahead Options
This Greek quinoa salad is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a refreshing and nutritious dish throughout the week. You can prepare the quinoa (1 cup rinsed with 2 cups water) in advance—just cook it in a medium saucepan until fluffy and let it cool. The diced cucumber (1 cup), halved cherry tomatoes (1 cup), finely chopped red onion (½ cup), crumbled feta cheese (1 cup), sliced kalamata olives (½ cup), and chopped parsley (¼ cup) can also be prepped ahead of time, ideally within 24 hours of serving. For the dressing, whisk together olive oil (¼ cup), red wine vinegar (2 tablespoons), dried oregano (1 teaspoon), minced garlic (1 clove), salt (½ teaspoon), and black pepper (¼ teaspoon) in advance; it keeps well in the fridge for about 3 days. To finish, simply combine everything when you're ready to serve, tossing gently with the dressing for a delightful Greek quinoa salad that bursts with flavor!
greek quinoa salad Recipe FAQs
What type of quinoa should I use for this salad?
You can use any variety of quinoa—white, red, or even black. Each has its own texture and flavor profile, but they all work beautifully in this refreshing greek quinoa salad. Just make sure to rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove any bitterness.
How should I store leftovers of my greek quinoa salad?
Leftover greek quinoa salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick toss before serving again, as the dressing may settle at the bottom. If you like it chilled, enjoy it right from the fridge!
Can I freeze greek quinoa salad?
While it's not recommended to freeze the entire salad due to the fresh vegetables and feta cheese losing their texture, you can freeze just the quinoa! Cooked quinoa freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and then mix with fresh veggies and dressing for a quick meal.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option or simply prefer something different, try using crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice and herbs as a great alternative to feta cheese. Another option could be goat cheese, which will add a similar tangy flavor.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends. With each serving being approximately 250 calories, it's also a nutritious option that won't weigh you down!
Can I customize the vegetables in this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices. Bell peppers, radishes, or even artichoke hearts would add delightful flavors and textures. The key is to keep it fresh and colorful—aiming for that beautiful Mediterranean vibe!
Greek Quinoa Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, olives, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
