Quinoa Greek Salad combines my favorite Greek Salad recipe with protein-packed quinoa. It is the perfect make-ahead lunch, side, or main dish!
Made with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, peppers, black olives, feta cheese, and of course quinoa. This quinoa salad is light, fresh, and loved by everyone.
The flavors of a Greek salad are so fresh. I am continuously creating new dishes with this combination!
Page Contents
Quinoa Greek Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, smashed and finely chopped to a paste
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cup quinoa
- Kosher salt and pepper
- Kosher salt and pepper
- 2 cups red and yellow grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup pitted kalamata olives
- 2 green onions (green and pale green parts), thinly sliced
- 2 pickled cherry peppers, diced
- 1 small red onion, halved and thinly sliced
- 1/2 English cucumber, cut into small dice
- Feta, for sprinkling
Directions
- Whisk together the lemon juice, vinegar, oregano, garlic, and some salt and pepper in a small bowl. Slowly whisk in the oil until emulsified. Let sit at room temperature while you prepare the salad to allow the flavors to meld
- Rinse the quinoa in a strainer until the water runs clear. Combine the quinoa, 2 cups water, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a small saucepan, bring to a boil, and cook until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender about 15 minutes
- Transfer to a bowl, fluff with a fork, and let sit for 5 minutes to cool slightly. Add the tomatoes, olives, green onions, cherry peppers, red onions, cucumbers, and dressing and toss to coat
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours before serving. The longer it sits the better the flavor
- Just before serving, transfer to a platter and sprinkle feta on top
What is Quinoa?
While most people think it is a grain, Quinoa is a seed and is prepared in a similar way to rice or barley. It has a slightly nutty flavor which can be served plain or you can add it to salads or even you can make Broccoli Quinoa Casserole.
It is gluten-free which makes it a popular choice for folks who either have a gluten intolerance or allergy (ensure your brand specifically lists that it is GF).
How to Cook Quinoa for Salad
Making quinoa for quinoa salad is easy. The preparation is very similar to cooking rice, only slightly faster.
- Rinse the quinoa
- Add water in a 1:2 ratio of quinoa: water
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 10-15 minutes until water is absorbed
- Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes
Some people toast the quinoa by cooking it in a bit of olive oil before adding the water. This brings out the nutty flavor of the quinoa.
How to Season Quinoa Salad
In this easy quinoa salad, I add my favorite Greek salad ingredients so I season very simply with salt and pepper and then use Greek salad dressing for flavor. I prefer homemade but I use store-bought from time to time as well! Remember to be generous with the dressing as the quinoa will soak it up.
Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro are perfectly added to quinoa salad along with almost any roasted or fresh veggie.
Give This Greek Quinoa Salad A Boost Of Protein If You Wish
I love serving this salad as a veggie-loaded meal for lunch or dinner in the summer, and when I do I like to add a boost of protein. So if you’re looking to do the same and serve this Quinoa Greek Salad as a main entree vs. a side, I recommend adding 1 cup of cubed chicken (or garbanzo beans for a plant-based option).
As a result, this salad will have everything you need in a meal to feel satisfied – quality protein, healthy fats, veggies, and fiber.
Make It Dairy-Free And Vegan-Friendly
Greek Quinoa Salad is super easy to make dairy-free and vegan-friendly. All you need to do is omit the feta cheese and you’ll have yourself the most delicious plant-based salad. I often have a hard time finding organic feta cheese in my rural location, so I simply make it without it. You could always add a little extra avocado to make up for it!
FAQS
Quinoa is a gluten-free grain that is rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It has a nutty flavor and a slightly crunchy texture.
A Quinoa Greek Salad typically includes quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like oregano and parsley.
Yes, Quinoa Greek Salad is a healthy and nutritious meal as it is packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is also low in calories, making it a great option for weight loss and a healthy lifestyle.
To make Quinoa Greek Salad, cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool. Add diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, crumbled feta cheese, and Kalamata olives. Drizzle with a dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like oregano and parsley. Toss everything together and serve.
Yes, you can make Quinoa Greek Salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep the dressing separate and toss it with the salad just before serving.
Conclusion
Quinoa Greek salad is one you’ll want to add to an upcoming menu whether it be for a weekend meal prep, a side dish, a potluck, or a summer grill-out. In other words, it’s a must-try! It’s one I make often during the summer when tomatoes and cucumbers are practically given away at local Farmers’ Markets or from gardening friends.
The salad ingredients are tossed in a vinaigrette that’s quick to make and can also be used as a marinade for chicken or veggies. All you need for the vinaigrette is avocado oil or olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and salt & pepper. So simple yet so delicious!