Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta

Whenever I’m looking for a refreshing dish to brighten up my day, I find myself gravitating towards this Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta. It’s a wonderful combination of flavors and textures that transports me to sunny summer afternoons. Picture a picnic spread, with vibrant colors from fresh ingredients and the delightful crunch of juicy cucumbers paired with fluffy quinoa. It’s perfect for those lazy weekends when you want something light yet satisfying, or for gatherings where you want to impress your friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this salad is not just in its taste but also its versatility. You can serve it as a side at barbecues or as a light lunch on its own. The first time I made it, I was taken aback by how simple yet delicious it turned out to be. The tangy lemon juice and creamy feta come together harmoniously, making every bite a burst of flavor. Trust me, once you try this Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation!

Main Ingredients for Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta

In creating the Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta, the ingredients play a crucial role. Each ingredient adds its unique touch, elevating the salad to a delightful dish. The star of the show is the quinoa, known for its nutty flavor and versatility. Cucumber provides a refreshing crunch, while feta cheese adds a creamy tang. Together, they create a harmonious blend that’s both satisfying and delicious.

• 1 cup quinoa, uncooked, about 3 cups cooked – A complete protein that makes this salad hearty and filling.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced – Adds sweetness and vibrant color to the mix.
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced – Offers a sharp, zesty contrast to the other ingredients.
• 1 medium English cucumber – Provides a refreshing crunch and hydration.
• 1 ½ cups feta cheese crumbles – Adds creaminess and a distinct salty flavor.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Introduces a wonderful aromatic element.
• Juice of one lemon – Brings brightness and acidity to balance the flavors.
• ⅓ cup olive oil – Works as a dressing, adding richness.
• ⅔ cup chopped walnuts – Provides a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• 1 – 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, chopped – Infuses a fresh herbaceous note.
• ½ teaspoon cracked pepper – Adds a bit of spice.
• ½ teaspoon sea salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile.

Putting Together Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta

Making the Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta is a straightforward process, and you’ll find it enjoyable! Follow these fun steps to prepare your salad. Start by cooking the quinoa, which is the base of this delightful dish.

1. Prepare the quinoa according to the package instructions. Rinse it well under cold water before cooking to remove any bitterness. Once done, let it cool. You want it fluffy and light, not sticky.
2. While the quinoa cools, chop your veggies. Start with the cucumber, cutting it in quarters for easy bite-sized pieces. Then, chop the red bell pepper and red onion finely, ensuring the sizes are uniform for a pleasant eating experience.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, diced pepper, chopped cucumber, walnuts, dill, and onion. Use a large spoon to stir everything together gently, ensuring it’s well mixed.
4. Next, in a small bowl, juice the lemon and add the minced garlic, sea salt, cracked pepper, and olive oil. Whisk this mixture until it’s well combined and emulsified.
5. Pour the lemon-garlic dressing over the salad and stir well. Ensure that every piece of the salad is coated with the dressing, which enhances all the flavors.
6. Finally, add in the feta cheese crumbles and gently fold them into the salad. You want the cheese to mix through, but not break down completely.
7. Chill the salad for at least 15 to 20 minutes in the refrigerator. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully. You’ll be amazed at how much better it tastes after some time!
8. When ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir. If it seems a bit dry, toss in an extra drizzle of olive oil to freshen it up.
9. Enjoy this delightful salad as a side or main course. It’s even better the next day, so be sure to save any leftovers!

Variations to Try

This Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta is so versatile, and you can adapt it based on your preferences! Here are some variations to keep things exciting:

• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
• Different nuts: Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a new flavor experience.
• Herb blend: Try using fresh parsley or basil along with or instead of dill.
• Extra veggies: Add in cherry tomatoes or avocado for extra flavors and nutrients.
• Spicy kick: Incorporate some crushed red pepper or jalapeños for a spicy twist.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and it tastes even better the next day!

Serving Options for Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta

Serving the Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta opens up a world of possibilities! It’s perfect for various occasions and pairs beautifully with many dishes. Here are some serving options:

• Picnic delight: This salad is an excellent addition to any picnic spread. Its fresh ingredients make it a hit among guests.
• BBQ companion: It complements grilled meats wonderfully, making it a fantastic side for barbecue gatherings.
• Lunchbox staple: Perfect for meal prep, pack it in lunchboxes with some pita bread for a wholesome midday meal.
• Potluck favorite: Bring it to potlucks; it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
• Seasonal pairing: Serve alongside grilled vegetables in the summer or roasted root vegetables in the winter.
• Light dinner: Enjoy it on its own as a light dinner option paired with a glass of sparkling water.
• Storage tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for several days, and you can always freshen them up with extra olive oil.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta is a refreshing, light dish that’s perfect for any occasion, be it a casual lunch or a festive gathering. Its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients make it a go-to recipe in my kitchen. I encourage you to try it out and experience the deliciousness for yourself!

Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta

The ultimate summer salad, Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta is light, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. With crunchy cucumbers, creamy feta, and fluffy quinoa, this dish is perfect for picnics or a light lunch. Make it today to experience a refreshing twist on your salad routine!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup quinoa uncooked, about 3 cups cooked
• 1 red bell pepper diced
• 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
• 1 medium English cucumber
• 1 ½ cups feta cheese crumbles
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 1 lemon juice of one
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• ⅔ cup chopped walnuts
• 1 – 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill chopped
• ½ teaspoon cracked pepper
• ½ teaspoon sea salt

Equipment

• Cutting Board
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Prepare the quinoa according to the package instructions. Rinse it well under cold water before cooking to remove any bitterness. Once done, let it cool. You want it fluffy and light, not sticky.
2. While the quinoa cools, chop your veggies. Start with the cucumber, cutting it in quarters for easy bite-sized pieces. Then, chop the red bell pepper and red onion finely, ensuring the sizes are uniform for a pleasant eating experience.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, diced pepper, chopped cucumber, walnuts, dill, and onion. Use a large spoon to stir everything together gently, ensuring it’s well mixed.
4. Next, in a small bowl, juice the lemon and add the minced garlic, sea salt, cracked pepper, and olive oil. Whisk this mixture until it’s well combined and emulsified.
5. Pour the lemon-garlic dressing over the salad and stir well. Ensure that every piece of the salad is coated with the dressing, which enhances all the flavors.
6. Finally, add in the feta cheese crumbles and gently fold them into the salad. You want the cheese to mix through, but not break down completely.
7. Chill the salad for at least 15 to 20 minutes in the refrigerator. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully. You’ll be amazed at how much better it tastes after some time!
8. When ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir. If it seems a bit dry, toss in an extra drizzle of olive oil to freshen it up.
9. Enjoy this delightful salad as a side or main course. It’s even better the next day, so be sure to save any leftovers!

Notes

Tip 1: Toss with extra olive oil before serving to freshen up your salad.

Tip 2: You can also top with more fresh dill and feta cheese when serving.

Tip 3: To save time, you can prep your quinoa in advance.

Tip 4: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Tip 5: Toss some grilled chicken or salmon right on top to make it a meal!

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.