Minted Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

This Minted Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is the perfect herbaceous complement to any grilled dish. It's light yet satisfying, packed with fresh vegetables, and brightened by zesty lemon and aromatic mint. With pre-cooked quinoa, this salad comes together quickly, making it an ideal healthy side for your outdoor cooking show or any weeknight meal.

Yields: 4–6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes, if cooking quinoa, plus cooling time
Special Equipment: Large mixing bowl, whisk

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked quinoa, cooled

• 1 English cucumber, diced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup red onion, finely diced

• ½ cup Kalamata olives, halved

• ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice

• ¼ Tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp dijon, more to taste

• 1 tsp grated shallot

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled cooked quinoa, diced English cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, and halved Kalamata olives. Stir in the fresh chopped mint and fresh chopped parsley.

2. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, grated shallot, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.

3. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture. Toss gently until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and coated with the dressing.

4. Serve: This salad can be served immediately at room temperature, but tastes even better if chilled in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy alongside grilled meats or as a light meal on its own!