Mediterranean Quinoa

Name: Mediterranean Quinoa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup tri-color quinoa; 1 ¾ cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 medium cucumber, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; ½ red onion, finely chopped; ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tbsp olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 22, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Mediterranean quinoa dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor that’s out of this world.
You can adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have at home.
The colorful presentation makes it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Enjoy it warm or cold; it’s superbly versatile!

I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends; they couldn’t stop raving about how fresh and flavorful it was!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Quinoa: Choose tri-color quinoa for added visual appeal and nutrients; rinse it well before cooking.
Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes that burst with sweetness when cooked.
Cucumber: A refreshing addition; pick firm cucumbers for the best crunch.
Red Bell Pepper: Adds sweetness and color; roast them for extra flavor.
Red Onion: Use finely chopped red onion to bring a sharp yet sweet flavor balance.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta lends a creamy texture and tanginess that elevates the dish.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness; chop finely for even distribution.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens flavors and adds zing.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for depth and richness.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors throughout the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Rinse the Quinoa: Place one cup of quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water until it runs clear. This removes bitterness.

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium pot, combine rinsed quinoa with two cups of water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy.

Prep the Vegetables: While waiting for the quinoa, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Their vibrant colors will brighten your day!

Add Flavors!: In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa with chopped vegetables. Drizzle in olive oil and lemon juice while seasoning generously with salt and pepper.

Toss In Feta and Parsley: Gently fold crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped parsley into the mixture until evenly distributed—this is where flavor magic happens!

Chill (Optional): For an elevated experience, let your salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving so flavors meld beautifully.

And voila! You’ve created a dish that’s not just food but an experience bursting with flavors that sing together beautifully! Whether served warm or cold as leftovers (if there are any), this Mediterranean quinoa is sure to impress family or guests alike!

You Must Know

Mediterranean Quinoa is a delightful dish that’s not just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients.
The vibrant colors and delicate flavors make it a feast for the eyes and the palate.
This dish is perfect for meal prep, too, as it stores well and reheats beautifully!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect results, rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove any bitterness. Cook it in vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on seasonality or personal preference. Adding some feta cheese or olives can elevate the Mediterranean experience!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of broth for optimal texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For best flavor, sauté onions and garlic before adding quinoa.
This step infuses a delicious aroma into your dish.
Always use a 2: 1 liquid-to-quinoa ratio for fluffy results, and don’t forget to let it rest after cooking!

Memorable gatherings around this Mediterranean Quinoa have always sparked laughter and new friendships. Friends rave about how they never knew healthy could taste this good!

FAQ

What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use bulgur or couscous for similar texture and flavor profiles.

How long does it take to cook quinoa?

Cooking quinoa typically takes about 15 minutes once the water boils.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Just stick to vegetable broth and omit any cheese or animal products.

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