Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Fresh and Flavorful Dish

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 whole cucumber, diced
• 1 whole bell pepper (any color), diced
• 0.5 whole red onion, finely chopped
• 0.25 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 0.5 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 0.25 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• to taste salt and pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth (or water) to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.
2. While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the dressing by whisking together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture, and gently toss until all the ingredients are well coated.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
6. Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.