Perfectly Balanced Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Looking for a refreshing and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with grilled chicken? The Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is an excellent choice! This recipe combines the versatility of quinoa, the vibrant flavors of vegetables, and the richness of feta cheese to create a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Perfectly balanced Mediterranean dishes are often sought after by health-conscious individuals looking for a satisfying yet light meal.

Quinoa, a grain-like seed harvested from plants in the amaranth family, is not only rich in protein but also packed with essential minerals like iron and magnesium. It's highly versatile as it can be used in salads, soups, or even side dishes. Quinoa’s nutty flavor and chewy texture make it an ideal base for a quinoa salad.

For this Mediterranean Quinoa Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups uncooked quinoa
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth (or water)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small red onion, finely sliced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (or another soft white cheese)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

The preparation process is straightforward. Begin by cooking the quinoa according to package instructions until tender and slightly chewy. While it cooks, prepare your vegetables: slice the cucumber into thin rounds; dice the bell pepper into small cubes; slice the red onion thinly; and chop fresh herbs finely.

Instructions

1. Rinse quinoa under cold running water to remove any bitterness.
2. Cook 2 cups of quinoa in a mixture of 1.5 cups vegetable broth or water for about 15 minutes until soft and fluffy. Drain if needed, reserving the cooking liquid.
3. Mix lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and chopped herbs together to create the dressing.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa with diced cucumber, chopped bell peppers, sliced red onions, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently until everything is evenly distributed.
5. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss again ensuring all ingredients are well coated. Adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more lemon juice, olive oil, salt, or pepper based on your preference.
6. Ladle into serving bowls or platter to serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving for best flavor development.

This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also very satisfying. It provides a balance of flavors and textures, with the nutty taste of quinoa providing a nice contrast against the fresh crunchiness of cucumber and bell pepper, while feta cheese adds a tangy bite. This meal can be enjoyed immediately after preparation or chilled to enhance its freshness.

The Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various types of protein like grilled chicken or fish. It’s also suitable for lunch boxes, picnics, and potlucks due to its portability and ability to hold well throughout the day without losing its texture or flavor.

Preparation time: 25 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Total preparation time: 40 minutes Serving size: Serves 6 as a side dish or main course

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is ideal for those looking to incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients into their diet. The combination of whole grains, vegetables, and healthy fats makes it an excellent choice for both weight management and overall health.