Linda’s Kitchen: Healthy Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Ingredients:

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

2 cups water or vegetable broth

1 cucumber, diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese 

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions:

1.  Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium-sized saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and sliced Kalamata olives.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture, and toss everything together until well combined.
5. If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves for added freshness and flavour.

Serve the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad chilled or at room temperature as a light and satisfying meal. It’s a perfect dish for lunch, dinner, or to bring to bbqs and gatherings. Enjoy the nutritious goodness while keeping your cholesterol levels in check!