Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Grilled Chicken and Tzatziki

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a refreshing and hearty lunch option, featuring perfectly grilled chicken, nutty quinoa, and a variety of vibrant vegetables. The salad is topped with a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce, adding a cool, tangy element that balances the dish beautifully. This recipe is not only satisfying but also adheres to a Mediterranean diet, making it a healthy choice packed with protein and fiber.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• For the Tzatziki sauce:
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the chicken. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from the grill and let rest before slicing.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives. Toss gently to combine.
5. To make the tzatziki sauce, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, and salt in a small bowl until well combined.
6. To serve, place a generous portion of the quinoa salad on a plate, top with sliced grilled chicken, and drizzle with tzatziki sauce. Sprinkle with feta cheese if desired.