Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

This vibrant Mediterranean Quinoa Salad combines fluffy quinoa with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. It's a perfect balance of traditional Mediterranean flavors with a modern twist, making it a refreshing and nutritious option for lunch or a light dinner. Packed with protein and fiber, this salad is also vegetarian and gluten-free, catering to various dietary preferences.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, feta cheese, parsley, and olives.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Once the quinoa is cooked, let it cool slightly, then add it to the vegetable mixture.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.