Quick Mediterranean Quinoa and Feta Salad

Our Quick Mediterranean Quinoa and Feta Salad is designed for those busy evenings, drastically minimising active time in the kitchen. This dish effortlessly combines freshness with substance, making it ideal for a swift lunch or a lighter dinner option. The harmonious blend of fluffy quinoa, vibrant, crisp vegetables, and the delightful salty tang of feta creates a truly satisfying culinary experience, all ready from start to finish in under 30 minutes, ensuring a wholesome meal without the fuss.

Quick Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Serves: 2

Ingredients

• 4.2 oz (120g) quinoa
• 8.5 fl oz (250ml) water or vegetable stock
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 5.3 oz (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 yellow pepper, diced
• 1.8 oz (50g) pitted Taggiasche olives
• 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 3.5 oz (100g) feta, crumbled
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (optional)
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Fine salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method

1. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold running water using a fine-mesh sieve. Transfer it to a small saucepan with the water or vegetable stock.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to its lowest setting, cover, and cook for approximately 15 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Turn off the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced yellow pepper, pitted Taggiasche olives, and thinly sliced red onion.
4. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes before adding it to the vegetables in the bowl.
5. Prepare the dressing by whisking together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad, then add the crumbled feta, chopped parsley, and mint (if using). Gently toss to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

Serving & Leftovers

Serve the salad immediately or allow it to rest in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to let the flavours meld beautifully. It makes for an excellent light main course. Leftovers will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days, though the vegetables are at their crispest when enjoyed fresh.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients and portions.

One Last Thing

Having a repertoire of reliable, speedy recipes is key to navigating the busiest evenings with ease. This Mediterranean quinoa salad demonstrates how delicious, wholesome meals can be created without sacrificing precious time, offering stress-free daily cooking and transforming your approach to meal preparation.