Quinoa, the protein-packed superfood, has been a staple in many cuisines for centuries. But when paired with crumbly feta cheese and fresh herbs, it becomes a match made in heaven. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a satisfying main course, quinoa salads are the perfect solution. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 different recipes that combine the nutty goodness of quinoa with the tanginess of feta and the brightness of fresh herbs.
From classic Mediterranean flavors to bold and spicy combinations, these quinoa salad recipes are sure to inspire your next meal. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking for some healthy inspiration, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and get ready to taste the world in every bite!
Mediterranean quinoa salad with feta and olives
This quinoa salad combines the nutty flavor of cooked quinoa with the savory taste of feta cheese, the brininess of olives, and the freshness of parsley. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced green olives
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Let cool.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked quinoa, feta cheese, olives, and parsley to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve at room temperature or chilled, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (quinoa cooking time)
Lemon herb quinoa salad with feta and cucumber
This refreshing salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish for your next gathering. The combination of quinoa, feta, cucumber, and lemon herb dressing creates a flavorful and textured delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 large cucumber, diced
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, feta cheese, and cucumber.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Greek-inspired quinoa salad with feta and cherry tomatoes
Greek-Inspired Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cherry Tomatoes
This quinoa salad is a vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional Greek cuisine, featuring the creamy tang of feta cheese, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the nutty depth of quinoa. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, it’s also an excellent side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tsp. lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, olives, feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted vegetable quinoa salad with feta and balsamic glaze
This hearty quinoa salad is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and colors, featuring roasted vegetables, creamy feta, and tangy balsamic glaze. It’s an ideal side dish or light lunch for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Toss sweet potato, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and parsley.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Avocado and feta quinoa salad with lime dressing
This refreshing quinoa salad combines the creamy richness of avocado with the tangy bite of feta cheese, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Spinach and feta quinoa salad with toasted pine nuts
This refreshing quinoa salad combines the earthy flavor of spinach, tanginess of feta cheese, and crunch of toasted pine nuts for a delightful side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (see notes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, spinach leaves, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top and season with salt and pepper, as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Notes:
– Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
– Adjust amount of feta cheese to taste. You can also use other types of cheese, such as goat cheese or ricotta.
Beetroot and feta quinoa salad with mint
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted beetroot with the tanginess of crumbled feta cheese, all tied together with fresh mint and nutty quinoa. Perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 2 medium beetroot, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast beetroot for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted beetroot, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Sun-dried tomato and feta quinoa salad with basil
This refreshing quinoa salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your favorite main course. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, crumbly feta, and fragrant basil creates a flavorful and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes; cook for an additional minute.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and combine with the tomato mixture.
5. Crumble feta cheese into the quinoa mixture and stir to combine.
6. Add chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (quinoa cooking time included)
Chickpea and feta quinoa salad with tahini dressing
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the creamy richness of tahini dressing with the tanginess of feta cheese, all on a bed of nutty quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, feta cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
4. Pour the tahini dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kale and feta quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the tanginess of feta cheese, the earthiness of kale, and a burst of citrus from lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, massage kale leaves with your fingers for about 2 minutes to soften the leaves.
3. Add cooked quinoa, crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, and olive oil to the bowl with the kale.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes cooking quinoa and preparing the salad)
Pomegranate and feta quinoa salad with honey dressing
A sweet and tangy salad that combines the flavors of pomegranate, feta cheese, and honey-glazed quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (arils)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey and olive oil over medium heat.
3. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the dressing thickens slightly.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, and pomegranate seeds.
5. Pour the honey dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted butternut squash and feta quinoa salad
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this vibrant quinoa salad, featuring roasted butternut squash and tangy feta cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss squash with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth. Fluff with fork.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted squash, cooked quinoa, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Black bean and feta quinoa salad with cilantro
This vibrant salad combines the creamy richness of feta cheese with the earthy sweetness of black beans, all on a bed of fluffy quinoa. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness to this flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, feta cheese, and chopped cilantro.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Watermelon and feta quinoa salad with fresh mint
This sweet and savory quinoa salad is perfect for hot summer days when you need a light and refreshing meal. The combination of juicy watermelon, crumbly feta cheese, and fragrant fresh mint will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh mint leaves.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (quinoa cooking time)
Spicy harissa quinoa salad with feta and roasted peppers
This vibrant salad combines the creamy heat of harissa with the nutty flavor of quinoa, crunchy roasted peppers, and crumbly feta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup harissa paste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted peppers, harissa paste, and feta cheese. Toss to combine.
4. Stir in chopped parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pear and feta quinoa salad with walnuts
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of pears, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the crunch of walnuts, all on a bed of nutty quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced pears, crumbled feta cheese, parsley, and walnuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– 10-15 minutes (including cooking quinoa)
Carrot and feta quinoa salad with cumin dressing
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the sweetness of carrots, the tanginess of feta, and the nutty goodness of quinoa. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 4 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, grated carrots, crumbled feta, and chopped parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and ground cumin.
4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Edamame and feta quinoa salad with sesame seeds
This refreshing quinoa salad combines the sweetness of edamame with the tanginess of feta cheese, all tied together with crunchy sesame seeds. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup shelled edamame
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, edamame, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle chopped cilantro (if using) and sesame seeds on top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Grilled zucchini and feta quinoa salad with dill
This refreshing quinoa salad is perfect for warm weather gatherings. The smoky flavor of grilled zucchini pairs beautifully with tangy feta cheese, crunchy dill, and nutty quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush zucchini with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic (if using). Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
3. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, grilled zucchini, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped dill.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple and feta quinoa salad with maple dressing
This salad combines the sweetness of apples with the tanginess of feta cheese, all wrapped up in a nutty quinoa bowl. The maple dressing adds a hint of warmth and depth to this seasonal treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced apple, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and olive oil.
4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to refresh your meal routine with these 20 mouth-watering quinoa salads featuring feta and herbs! From Mediterranean-inspired salads with olives and cherry tomatoes, to lighter options like avocado and feta or watermelon and feta, there’s a recipe to suit every taste. Each salad is packed with nutritious quinoa, crumbly feta, and a variety of fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and mint. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a healthy dinner option, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
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