Warm Quinoa and Feta Salad with Fresh Vegetables
This hearty and nutritious Warm Quinoa and Feta Salad combines the wholesome goodness of quinoa with the fresh flavors of colorful vegetables and the creamy tang of feta cheese. Perfect as a main dish or a side, this salad is both satisfying and packed with protein, making it ideal for a healthy meal. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it a great option for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Quinoa:
– Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
– In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil.
– Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed, and the quinoa is fluffy.
– Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
– While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables.
– Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion.
3. Make the Dressing:
– In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the Salad:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and prepared vegetables.
– Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to combine.
5. Add the Feta:
– Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
6. Garnish and Serve:
– Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
7. Enjoy:
– Serve warm or at room temperature as a main dish or a hearty side.
This Warm Quinoa and Feta Salad is ideal for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even as a healthy meal prep option for the week. Enjoy the blend of flavors and the nutritious benefits!