Greek Quinoa Salad

This healthy Greek Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and refreshing vegetarian dish packed with fresh vegetables, chickpeas, fluffy quinoa, and a zesty lemony Greek dressing. Perfect as a side or a light main dish, it’s ideal for meal prep and can be enjoyed warm or chilled.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Loaded with fresh, wholesome ingredients

• Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free

• Easy to make and great for meal prep

• Customizable with vegan options

• Light yet satisfying, perfect for warm weather

• Packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas and quinoa

• Flavored with a simple homemade Greek dressing

• Great as a side dish or a stand-alone salad

• Keeps well in the fridge for days

• Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and packed lunches

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• dry quinoa

• water

• salt and pepper to taste

• canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• chopped tomatoes

• diced red bell pepper

• peeled and diced English cucumber

• crumbled feta (optional for vegan version)

• minced red onion

• fresh chopped parsley (optional)

For the Lemony Greek Dressing:

• fresh lemon juice

• extra virgin olive oil

• apple cider vinegar (or red wine vinegar)

• garlic, smashed and minced

• dried oregano leaves

• salt

• black pepper

Directions

1. Rinse and drain the quinoa using a mesh strainer.

2. In a small pot over medium heat, lightly toast the quinoa to remove excess water and enhance flavor.

3. Add water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer with the lid slightly ajar for 12-13 minutes until fluffy and water is absorbed.

4. Fluff quinoa with a fork, season with salt and pepper, and let cool in a medium bowl.

5. While quinoa cooks, chop all vegetables and prepare the dressing.

6. To make the dressing, whisk all ingredients together or shake in a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid.

7. Combine cooled quinoa with chopped veggies and optional parsley in a large bowl.

8. Add the dressing and toss everything together.

9. Top with crumbled feta if using.

10. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 side salads or 2 main bowls
Prep Time: 17 minutes
Cook Time: 13 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegan: Omit the feta cheese

• Add Avocado: Diced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats

• Add Greens: Mix in baby spinach or arugula for a heartier salad

• Swap Chickpeas: Use white beans or black beans as an alternative

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped pepperoncini or a sprinkle of red chili flakes

• Creamier Dressing: Add a spoonful of tahini to the dressing

• Grilled Veggies: Mix in grilled zucchini or eggplant for a smoky flavor

• Mediterranean Twist: Add kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes

• Herb Boost: Add fresh mint or dill for added freshness

• Protein Boost: Top with grilled chicken or shrimp

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day. This salad is best served cold or at room temperature and does not require reheating.

FAQs

What type of quinoa should I use?

White, red, or tri-color quinoa all work well for this recipe. White quinoa is light and fluffy, while red and tri-color add a bit more texture.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. Make it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge.

Is this salad vegan?

As written, it’s vegetarian. To make it vegan, simply skip the feta cheese.

How can I make the quinoa more flavorful?

Toasting the quinoa before cooking enhances its nutty flavor. You can also cook it in vegetable broth instead of water.

Can I use bottled lemon juice for the dressing?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

What can I serve with this salad?

It pairs well with grilled proteins, veggie burgers, pita bread, or can be served as a stand-alone main dish.

How do I keep the vegetables crisp?

If meal prepping, store the dressing separately and add just before serving to maintain crunch.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the vegetables and quinoa will change upon thawing.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, and all other ingredients are as well.

What if I don’t like raw onions?

You can use green onions or soak the red onions in water for 10 minutes to reduce their sharpness.

Conclusion

This Greek Quinoa Salad is a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition, perfect for any occasion—from a weekday lunch to a summer potluck. With its fresh ingredients, easy prep, and satisfying texture, it’s bound to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you enjoy it straight from the fridge or freshly tossed, every bite delivers bold Mediterranean flavor and wholesome satisfaction.

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