Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing

This vibrant Mediterranean Quinoa Salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with fresh vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon-tahini dressing. It's a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it a perfect side dish or light main course. This recipe is vegetarian and packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, feta cheese, parsley, and olives.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
4. Add the cooled quinoa to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.