The Easiest Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the earthy flavors of quinoa with fresh vegetables and herbs. It’s not just tasty; it’s packed with nutrients, making it a great option for a light lunch or a side dish.

Simple to prepare, you can have this salad ready in no time. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and briny olives, along with a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of lemon juice, creates a delightful balance of flavors that will leave you satisfied and energized!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
2. Let the quinoa cool for a few minutes. In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, green bell pepper, black olives, parsley, and mint.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and gently toss to combine all ingredients.
4. Serve immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.