Quinoa Salad with Cucumber and Feta

Ingredients

Quinoa

1 cup, rinsed

Water

2 cups

Cucumber

1 large, diced

Feta cheese

1 cup, crumbled

Olive oil

3 tablespoons

Lemon juice

2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed

Salt

1/2 teaspoon, or to taste

Black pepper

1/4 teaspoon, or to taste

Fresh herbs (optional)

1/4 cup, chopped (such as parsley or mint)

Instructions

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear, which helps remove the bitter coating called saponin.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the water has been absorbed.
3. Once cooked, remove the quinoa from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff it with a fork and set aside to cool.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, diced cucumber, crumbled feta, and fresh herbs if using.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
6. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated.
7. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. For added flavor, let it marinate for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to meld together.