Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Ingredients

• •1 cup Quinoa (rinsed and drained)
• •1/2 cup Feta cheese (crumbled, optional)
• •1 cup Cherry tomatoes (halved)
• •1 large Cucumber (diced)
• •2 cups Water (for cooking quinoa)
• •1/4 cup Red onion (finely chopped)
• •1/2 cup Kalamata olives (sliced)
• •1/2 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
• •1/4 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly ground)
• •1 clove Garlic (minced)
• •3 tablespoons Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• •2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
• •1/4 cup Fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

1. 1.

   In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed the water and is tender.

2. 2.

   Remove the quinoa from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.

3. 3.

   In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, and feta cheese.

4. 4.

   In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.

5. 5.

   Add the cooled quinoa to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over the top. Toss to combine.

6. 6.

   Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.