Salad Recipe

Certainly! Here's another delightful salad recipe that’s both healthy and easy to prepare.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbles
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Quinoa:

   • Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed.
   • Let the quinoa cool to room temperature.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • While the quinoa is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, parsley, mint (if using), and red bell pepper.

3. Assemble the Salad:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, red bell pepper, chickpeas, parsley, and mint.
   • Gently mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, red wine vinegar (if using), salt, and pepper.
   • Adjust seasoning to taste.

5. Dress the Salad:

   • Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad and toss to coat.
   • Sprinkle feta cheese crumbles on top.

6. Serve:

   • Serve chilled or at room temperature as a main course or side dish.
   • Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean quinoa salad!

This salad is packed with nutrients and flavor, making it a perfect option for a light lunch or dinner. You can also add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a heartier meaL