Vibrant Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup fresh mint, chopped

• 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Method

1. 01
   Place the rinsed quinoa and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. 02
   Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
3. 03
   In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, parsley, and mint.
4. 04
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, honey, dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
5. 05
   Pour the vinaigrette over the quinoa salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are coated.
6. 06
   Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a couple of hours to enhance the flavors.