Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
The perfect light and flavorful dish, Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is packed with nutrients and vibrant ingredients. With quinoa, spinach, and a delightful dressing, it’s a refreshing choice for any meal. Enjoy this easy weeknight dinner that will leave you satisfied and wanting more!
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Mixing Bowl
- Skillet
- Chef's Knife
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 cups dry quinoa
- 2.5 ounces baby spinach
- 1/2 large red onion chopped
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes julienne cut, drained
- 1 cup kalamata olives pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt to taste
- 4 ounces feta cheese crumbles
Instructions
- Prepare the quinoa according to package instructions. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness. This step is crucial for achieving a light, fluffy texture. Once it is cooked, let it cool slightly.
- While the quinoa is cooking, heat a couple of teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and sauté until it is completely soft and golden-brown, which takes about 10 to 15 minutes. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, cider vinegar, and lemon juice to create a simple dressing. This tangy mix will complement the flavors of the salad beautifully.
- Once the quinoa has finished cooking, turn off the heat and add the baby spinach to the pot. Cover the pot to allow the spinach to steam and wilt down for about 5 minutes. This method keeps the spinach vibrant and fresh.
- After the spinach has softened, stir it into the quinoa mixture and ensure it is well combined, creating a nutrient-rich base.
- Next, transfer the quinoa and spinach mix to a large serving bowl. Add in the sautéed onions, sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese crumbles. The colors and textures will be a feast for your eyes!
- Pour the dressing over the salad and sprinkle with sea salt. Toss everything together gently until all ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
- Take a moment to taste the salad for flavor. Adjust the seasoning by adding more sea salt or lemon juice if necessary to suit your palate.
- Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Notes
This salad is perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge for several days, and the flavors continue to develop over time. You can also switch up the ingredients based on your preferences or what's in season. Enjoy!