Name: Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked quinoa; 3 Persian (mini) cucumbers or 1/2 English cucumber, sliced; Generous handful little tomatoes, halved; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped; Handful kalamata olives, pitted; 2 tablespoons red onion, chopped; 3.5 ounces cubed feta cheese (preferably packed in oil and herbs); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon red vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or more to taste); Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 2 reviews

“`html

If you’re looking for a dish that truly celebrates vibrant flavors, bright colors, and wholesome ingredients, then this Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s fresh, healthy, and bursting with that irresistible Mediterranean zing, making it perfect for a light lunch, a picnic, or even meal prep for the week. Every forkful brings together the nutty quinoa, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, tangy feta, and zesty dressing—creating a harmony of flavors that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl holds a colorful salad with layers of chopped quinoa forming the base, topped with bright green cucumber pieces that have a rough outer texture and pale green inside, deep red diced bell peppers, small chunks of vibrant green bell pepper, thin slices of purple onion, halved cherry tomatoes showing bright red interiors, and several dark purple olives scattered on top. A woman's hand pink spoon is partially visible inside the bowl, resting on the right side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a few small green herb bits around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might seem simple, but together they create an unforgettable taste experience. Each component adds a special element that makes this Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe so delightful—from texture and color to bold seasoning.

1 cup uncooked quinoa: The hearty base that soaks up all the bright flavors and provides a satisfying bite.
3 Persian (mini) cucumbers or 1/2 English cucumber, sliced: Adds crisp, refreshing crunch to every spoonful.
Generous handful of little tomatoes, halved: Gives bursts of juicy sweetness that balance the savory notes.
1 red bell pepper, chopped: Brings a sweet, vibrant pop of color and subtle smokiness.
1/2 green bell pepper, chopped: Offers a mild, fresh contrast to the red pepper.
Handful of Kalamata olives, pitted: Infuses the salad with rich, salty depth distinctive to Mediterranean flavors.
2 tablespoons red onion, chopped: Adds just the right sharpness and crunch without overpowering the mix.
3.5 ounces feta cheese, cubed: Creamy and tangy, it ties the salad together with indulgent richness.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides smoothness and helps the dressing cling perfectly to every bite.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Delivers bright acidity that lifts the entire dish.
1 tablespoon red vinegar: Adds a gentle tang and complements the lemon beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or more to taste): The quintessential Mediterranean herb bringing warmth and earthiness.
Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing every ingredient.

How to Make Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Begin by cooking the quinoa according to the package directions, which usually involves rinsing it first to remove any bitterness. Once cooked, fluff it lightly with a fork and set it aside to cool—this is key for a refreshing, room-temperature salad that’s full of texture without being mushy.

Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients

While the quinoa cools, get busy chopping the cucumbers, bell peppers, tomatoes, and red onion. Toss these vibrant veggies straight into a large salad bowl, along with the fragrant Kalamata olives and cubed feta. This layering of colorful ingredients already looks like a feast before the dressing is even added!

Step 3: Combine Quinoa and Salad Mix

Once the quinoa is cool, add it to the bowl packed with fresh vegetables and feta. This step melds the nutty texture of quinoa with the crispness of the veggies, setting the stage for the dressing to pull everything together.

Step 4: Dress and Season Your Salad

In goes the olive oil, lemon juice, red vinegar, and dried oregano right into the bowl. Stir everything gently but thoroughly, making sure every grain and crunch is coated in the luscious dressing. Taste and don’t be shy about adjusting salt, pepper, or acidity to perfectly suit your palate—this salad truly shines with personalized seasoning.

Step 5: Chill or Serve Immediately

You can enjoy this Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe right away for a fresh, lively bite or pop it in the fridge to let the flavors mingle for an hour or two. Either way, it stays crisp and flavorful for days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or a quick grab-and-go meal.

How to Serve Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe

A white bowl filled with a mixed quinoa salad is shown from above on a white marbled surface. The salad has multiple layers of light beige quinoa grains as the base, with scattered small cubes of white feta cheese, dark brown to black pitted olives sliced in halves, bright red cherry tomato halves, light green chopped cucumbers, small pieces of green bell pepper, and finely diced red onions spread all over. The textures range from soft quinoa to smooth and firm cheese, juicy tomatoes, and crisp cucumbers. A white cloth napkin is placed near the bowl, adding softness to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your salad even further, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or mint on top just before serving. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few lemon wedges alongside also make for lovely garnishes that invite your guests to customize their own bites.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a light and balanced meal. It also makes a delicious companion to warm pita bread or alongside a bowl of hearty hummus for a Mediterranean-themed feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out bell pepper halves or small edible bowls made from cucumbers. You could also layer it in jars with the dressing at the bottom for an attractive picnic or lunchbox option that stays fresh until mealtime.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe keeps really well in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to retain freshness and prevent the veggies from wilting. Give it a quick stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing and flavors.

Freezing

Since this salad features fresh vegetables and feta, freezing is not recommended as it can negatively affect texture and taste. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

If you prefer your quinoa warm, you can gently reheat just the quinoa separately and then toss it with the remaining salad ingredients cold. Otherwise, this salad truly shines served at room temperature or chilled.

FAQs

Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! While quinoa adds a lovely nuttiness and protein boost, couscous or bulgur wheat can also work well, though the texture and nutritional profile will vary slightly.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

To make this Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. The salad will still be flavorful and satisfying.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the salad stays fresh for up to three days. Beyond that, the vegetables may lose their crispness.

Can I add protein to make it a complete meal?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or even shredded roasted vegetables make wonderful protein-rich additions that boost the salad’s staying power.

What type of oregano is best to use?

Dried oregano is the classic choice and offers a robust herbal flavor. If you have fresh oregano, that works beautifully too—just use a bit more as fresh herbs are milder.

Final Thoughts

I really hope you give this Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe a go because it’s one of those dishes that feels both comforting and exciting at the same time. It’s perfect for anytime you want something fresh, vibrant, and nourishing without fuss. Once you taste the harmony of flavors and textures, it just might become your new favorite go-to salad. Enjoy every bite!

“`