Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing

This vibrant Mediterranean Quinoa Salad brings together the wholesome flavors of quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a creamy lemon-tahini dressing. It's a delightful balance of textures with crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese. Ideal for lunch or as a side dish, this salad is both refreshing and filling, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious eaters.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.
2. While the quinoa cooks, prepare the dressing by whisking together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
4. Drizzle the lemon-tahini dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese just before serving.