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Mediterranean Quinoa Salad With Lemon Basil Dressing

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad With Lemon Basil Dressing

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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 25
  • Total Time: 45
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Grilling and Boiling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This vibrant Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a celebration of fresh, sun-drenched flavors. Featuring fluffy quinoa, charred grilled zucchini, crisp red bell pepper, and salty feta, it is brought to life with a zesty, aromatic lemon basil vinaigrette. Perfectly balanced and deeply nourishing, this protein-packed salad is ideal for meal prep, acting as a wholesome centerpiece that only improves in flavor as it sits. A true testament to the beauty of healthy, plant-forward eating, this dish is as nourishing for the soul as it is for the body.


Ingredients

Scale

1.25 cups uncooked quinoa
2.5 cups water
2/3 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 large zucchini, sliced
1 large red bell pepper, diced
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced


Instructions

Rinse the quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear.
In a medium pot, combine quinoa, 2.5 cups water, and salt; bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed; fluff with a fork.
While the quinoa cooks, brush the sliced zucchini, bell pepper, and onion with 3 tablespoons of olive oil and grill over medium-high heat until tender and charred; set aside.
In a blender or food processor, combine fresh basil, 1/4 cup olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth to create the dressing.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, grilled vegetables, feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives.
Drizzle the lemon basil dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve warm or chilled.


Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This salad actually tastes better the next day as the flavors marinate. Feel free to add chickpeas for an extra protein boost.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg