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If you are looking for a fresh, vibrant Mediterranean quinoa salad that is packed with protein and flavor, this is it!! This tangy lemon quinoa salad is loaded with cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, red onion, creamy feta cheese, peppery arugula, and hearty chickpeas for the ultimate healthy lunch or side dish.
This recipe has been on Wholesomelicious for years, and it truly deserves a refresh. It has always been a go to for family gatherings, poolside dinners, and easy meal prep weeks. Every time I make it, it disappears fast!!
As a nutritionist, I love recipes that are both satisfying and nutrient dense. Quinoa is a complete protein, chickpeas add fiber and plant-based protein, and the fresh vegetables bring antioxidants and crunch. It is a balanced, gluten free salad that actually keeps you full.
Why You Will Love This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
This Greek inspired quinoa salad combines everything you love about a classic Greek salad with the added boost of protein from quinoa and chickpeas. The lemon pepper vinaigrette ties everything together with bright citrus flavor and just the right amount of tang. It is:
- High protein and vegetarian
- Gluten free and meal prep friendly
- Perfect for spring and summer gatherings
- Easy to transport for potlucks or outdoor dinners
The peppery arugula adds a fresh bite that pairs perfectly with the lemon dressing and salty feta. Every bite is fresh, flavorful, and completely crave worthy!!
Perfect for Meal Prep
This healthy quinoa salad is ideal for weekly meal prep. I like to cook a batch of quinoa on Sunday and store it in a separate container. The lemon vinaigrette can be whisked together in just minutes and kept in the fridge.
When it is time to pack lunch, simply chop the vegetables and toss everything together. It comes together in less than five minutes, which makes busy weekdays so much easier.
Keeping the components separate helps the salad stay fresh and crisp all week long. It is one of my favorite make ahead lunch recipes.
A Spring and Summer Staple
This Mediterranean quinoa salad with lemon dressing is bright, colorful, and perfect for warmer weather. Serve it as a light vegetarian lunch, a healthy side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or bring it to your next cookout. It is always a crowd pleaser!!
If you love fresh Mediterranean flavors, be sure to check out my Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Lemon Pepper Vinaigrette for the full recipe and details.
Trust me, this one is worth bringing back into your regular rotation!!!!
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Lemon Pepper Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 6 inch cucumber piece
- 2/3 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup chopped cherry or grape tomatoes
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 can chickpeas/garbanzo beans
- 2 cups loosely packed arugula
- 1/2 cup olive oil or salad oil
- 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp lemon pepper
Instructions
- Begin by making your quinoa. Combine broth or water and quinoa into a small saucepan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for approximately 15 minutes or until quinoa has absorbed liquid and is fluffy. Set aside to cool and remove lid.
- Prepare your vegetables by chopping cucumber, onion, and tomatoes into small pieces. Place inside a large bowl.
- Rinse and drain chickpeas, add to vegetable bowl.
- Once quinoa is cooled, add to vegetables.
- Mix in arugula and feta.
- Make the dressing by whisking together remaining ingredients. Use approximately 3/4 cup of the dressing (or add more to your liking) and pour over salad.
- Serve immediately.
