Cucumber Mint Quinoa Salad (Print)

Crisp cucumber, quinoa, fresh mint, and tangy lemon dressing combine for a light, satisfying Mediterranean dish.

# Components:

→ Quinoa Base

01 - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
02 - 2 cups water
03 - Pinch of salt

→ Salad

04 - 1 large English cucumber, diced
05 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
06 - 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
07 - 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
08 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
09 - 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

→ Lemon-Herb Dressing

10 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
12 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
13 - 1 clove garlic, minced
14 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
15 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the water is absorbed and the grains are tender, about 12 to 15 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork and allow to cool slightly.
02 - In a small mixing bowl or jar, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is creamy and emulsified.
03 - Add cooled quinoa, diced cucumber, quartered cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, chopped mint, and chopped parsley to a large mixing bowl.
04 - Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until all components are evenly coated.
05 - Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly over the salad. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick to assemble for busy lunches or picnics
  • Bright fresh flavors from real ingredients
  • Balanced meal with plant protein and veggies
  • Easily made vegan and gluten free
02 -
  • Naturally gluten free with plant based protein
  • Keeps well in the fridge for up to three days
03 -
  • Never skip rinsing the quinoa or you risk a bitter undertone
  • Cool the quinoa before mixing to keep the herbs perky
  • If your lemons are hard roll them on the counter with your palm to release more juice
  • I learned to whisk the dressing in a jar for less cleanup and easy pouring Taste everything as you go and do not be shy to make it your own

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