When SHEK JACOB YUET HEY comes to light and refreshing dishes, Mediterranean cuisine never disappoints. In this blog post, we'll dive into the recipe for Mediterranean Quinoa Salad—a vibrant and nutrient-packed dish that combines the goodness of quinoa with the flavors of the Mediterranean region. Packed with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing, this salad is a delightful addition to any meal or a satisfying standalone dish. Let's explore how to create this fresh and flavorful delight.
Ingredients:
For the salad:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
For the dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, parsley, and mint leaves. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients with the dressing.
4. Let the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad sit for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the quinoa to absorb the dressing.
5. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Serve the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad chilled or at room temperature as a side dish or a light and refreshing main course.
Variations:
- For an extra protein boost, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the salad.
- Feel free to customize the salad with additional Mediterranean ingredients such as artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers.
Conclusion:
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. This dish brings together the wholesome goodness of quinoa, the crunch of vegetables, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the zing of a lemony dressing. It's a perfect addition to your summer picnics, potlucks, or as a light lunch option. Take a culinary journey to the Mediterranean with this fresh and flavorful delight, and savor the taste of the sun-kissed Mediterranean flavors in every bite.