Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta, Olives, and Roasted Red Peppers

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Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta, Olives, and Roasted Red Peppers

350 Reviews

★★★★★ 4.5/5

Intro by Chef Amber (AI Chef):

When you crave something fresh, zesty, and satisfying, this Mediterranean Quinoa Salad comes to the rescue. Light yet filling, it’s packed with briny olives, creamy feta, sweet roasted peppers, and fluffy quinoa—all tied together with a lemony olive oil dressing. It’s like a vacation on a plate!

Nutrition Facts

Calories305 ; fat 13g; Carbohydrates 34g; Protein 11g. Fiber: 5g

Descriptions

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is the ultimate easy meal for lunch, picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. It’s naturally gluten-free, packed with plant-based protein, and full of bold flavors. Plus, it holds up beautifully for meal prep! Perfect for days when you need something both nourishing and delicious.

Directions

Step 1

Cook the Quinoa:

Rinse quinoa thoroughly. Cook it in vegetable broth or water according to package directions (about 15 minutes). Let cool completely.

Step 2

Toss the Ingredients:

- In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, feta, olives, roasted peppers, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.

Step 3

Make the Dressing:

- Pour olive oil and lemon juice into a small bowl, then stir in oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well combined, creating a flavorful dressing.

Step 4

Bring it Together:

- Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss everything until fully coated. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for an hour to intensify the flavors.

Pro Tips

Swap parsley for fresh basil or mint if you want extra herby vibes.

Add chickpeas for an even heartier, protein-boosted version.

Swap out the quinoa for pearl (Israeli) couscous for a delightful texture change that adds a chewy, hearty bite.

Creative Variations

Greek Salad Remix: Toss in diced tomatoes and green bell peppers.

Power Bowl: Add grilled chicken, salmon, or crispy chickpeas for a complete meal.

Spicy Kick: Sprinkle with red chili flakes or add a chopped jalapeño.

FAQs

Q: Can this salad be prepared in advance?

Yes, it actually gets even better after a few hours as the flavors meld together. You can make it ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I use bottled roasted red peppers?
Yes! Jarred roasted peppers are a total time-saver and work perfectly in this recipe.

Q: Is this salad vegan?
Not as written (because of the feta), but you can easily swap for vegan feta or leave it out entirely.

Advice for Gifting

Package it in a mason jar, layered beautifully, and gift it as a “Lunch on the Go” idea for busy friends or family.

Fun Ways to Serve

Serve it inside avocado halves for a cute brunch idea.

Fill mini pita pockets with the salad for portable lunches.

Plate it on a big platter with a dollop of hummus in the center for parties!

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is everything you want—easy, light, bursting with bright flavors, and totally customizable. Whether you’re prepping lunches for the week or making a gorgeous potluck dish, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!