Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish, combining protein-rich quinoa with fresh veggies, heart-healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, and a refreshing kick of lemon and mint. The best part? It’s simple, quick, and incredibly nutritious!
Ingredients
- ¾ cup quinoa
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 14 cups water
- ¼ tsp dried mustard
- 1 small cucumber cut in half and sliced
- 1 small clove garlic finely chopped
- ½ cup diced celery from the inner hearts
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives
- Salt to taste
- 1 ripe avocado diced
- Freshly ground pepper
- 1 tbsp slivered fresh mint leaves
- Organic mixed greens
- 3 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 170 g grilled chicken
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Optional: Grilled salmon for a tasty variation
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
- If your quinoa comes from a bin, rinse it thoroughly under cold water using a strainer. (Boxed quinoa typically doesn’t need to be rinsed.)
- In a saucepan, bring the quinoa and water to a boil with a pinch of sea salt.
- Once boiling, cover the pan and reduce heat to a simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa absorbs the water and the grains display a thread-like spiral.
- Remove from heat, take off the lid, and place a dishtowel over the pan. Return the lid on top of the towel and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool in a salad bowl.
Step 2: Prep the Veggies
- While the quinoa cools, chop the cucumber, celery, olives, and avocado.
- Add them to the bowl of quinoa along with fresh parsley and mint.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, dried mustard, chopped garlic, salt, and olive oil until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Toss the quinoa and veggie mixture with most of the dressing, leaving about 3 tablespoons for the greens.
- In a separate bowl, toss your organic mixed greens with the remaining dressing.
Step 5: Serve
- Place the dressed greens on a plate, top with the quinoa mixture, and add your grilled chicken (or salmon, if you prefer).
- Season with freshly ground pepper and a pinch of sea salt if needed.
Notes
This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is such a versatile dish! It’s filling but light, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. The combination of fresh herbs, crunchy veggies, and creamy avocado brings a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, quinoa is an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, which keeps you full and satisfied.
Have you made this recipe?I would love to hear about it @DianeLenihan or tag #DianeLenihan