Description
Mediterranean Quinoa Bean Salad is a vibrant and wholesome dish combining protein-rich quinoa and chickpeas with fresh Mediterranean vegetables, kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese. Tossed in a zesty homemade lemon-oregano dressing, this salad delivers a refreshing blend of textures and flavors. Perfect for lunch, meal prep, or as a hearty side for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, cooked and cooled
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook quinoa according to package directions and let cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Add kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss everything gently until well combined.
- Allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
Notes
For a vegan option, omit feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based feta. Red bell pepper or avocado can be added for extra flavor. Salad can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; keep dressing separate until ready to serve for best texture. If the quinoa is mushy, try reducing water or letting it cool uncovered to keep grains fluffy. Chickpeas can be swapped for white beans if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook/Chilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg