Teresa's Recipes
Quinoa Salad with Cucumber and Feta
Delight in this vibrant quinoa salad that perfectly marries the nutty flavor of quinoa with the crispness of fresh cucumbers and the tanginess of feta cheese. This light and refreshing dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch or a delightful side dish at your next gathering. Originating from the Andean region of South America, quinoa has been cultivated for over 5,000 years and is revered for its health benefits and versatility. Enjoy this dish chilled or at room temperature for a satisfying meal any time of the year.
Ingredients
- 1 cup, rinsed Quinoa
- 2 cups Water
- 1 large, diced Cucumber
- 1 cup, crumbled Feta cheese
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed Lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste Black pepper
- 1/4 cup, chopped (such as parsley or mint) Fresh herbs (optional)
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 24g
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Sugar: 2g
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear, which helps remove the bitter coating called saponin.
- 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.
- 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.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, diced cucumber, crumbled feta, and fresh herbs if using.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- 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.
Tips
- Feel free to add other colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onion for an extra crunch and flavor.
- For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken.
- This salad can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.