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Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta Cheese
Created by: Howcan Team
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 English cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water using a fine mesh strainer.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and transfer to a large bowl to cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and fresh parsley to the bowl with the quinoa.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetables, and toss to combine.
- Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
The Mediterranean Quinoa Salad has a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations around the Mediterranean region. This wholesome dish has been a staple in the diets of the Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans for centuries. The addition of feta cheese brings a delightful tangy flavor and creamy texture to the salad, elevating its taste to new heights. Renowned chefs in the Mediterranean region, such as Yotam Ottolenghi and Jamie Oliver, have popularized this dish in their restaurants and cookbooks, showcasing the versatility and health benefits of quinoa. The salad is a colorful medley of fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and Kalamata olives, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Today, the best versions of this dish can be found in authentic Mediterranean restaurants that prioritize using high-quality feta cheese and locally sourced produce. The key to perfecting this salad lies in achieving the right balance of flavors and textures, ensuring that the quinoa is fluffy and well-seasoned, and the feta cheese adds a creamy, salty kick. For a unique twist, some chefs incorporate alternative methods such as marinating the feta cheese in olive oil and herbs before adding it to the salad, infusing it with even more Mediterranean flavors. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a side dish at a summer barbecue, the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with added feta cheese is a delightful celebration of Mediterranean cuisine.
30 min
4
320 calories
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