Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad has bold flavor and is the perfect meal for warm summer months, meal prep, or an easy side dish.

You may also like our Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad.

With simple ingredients, hearty texture, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors, this dish is a great option for anyone looking to eat healthy without sacrificing taste. It's a simple salad with bold flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe

• Packed with plant-based protein from chickpeas and quinoa
• A great source of protein for building and repairing muscles.
• Made with fresh vegetables and healthy fats
• Brings a tangy flavor and briny kalamata olives for that signature Mediterranean food experience
• Works as a main dish, side dish, or light lunch
• Perfect for meal prep and storing in an airtight container

Ingredients

Here’s a look at the simple ingredients that make this salad so crave-worthy:

• Cooked quinoa – A nutrient-dense base and complete protein. Use leftover quinoa salad for quick assembly.
• Chopped cucumber – Crisp cucumbers add a nice crunch and hydrating freshness. Feel free to use a regular garden cucumber or an English cucumber.
• Chickpeas (garbanzo beans) – Full of plant-based protein. Substitute with black beans or air fryer tofu nuggets for a twist.
• Chopped red onion – Adds sharp flavor and color. For a milder taste, soak in water for 10 minutes.
• Chopped red bell pepper – Sweet and vibrant, this veggie adds a pop of color and antioxidants. Feel free to substitute with orange, yellow, or green bell pepper.
• Chopped fresh parsley – One of the best fresh herbs for Mediterranean recipes. Provides brightness and depth.
• Pitted kalamata olives – Bring in a briny flavor and classic Mediterranean diet authenticity.
• Cherry or grape tomatoes – Juicy and sweet, these fresh tomatoes add much flavor and contrast.
• Sliced almonds – For crunch and healthy fats. Swap with pine nuts, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds.
• Lemon vinaigrette dressing – Use a blend of fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, and optional red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar for tang. For an oil-free dressing, use the oil-free Greek dressing.
• Mixed baby greens – Makes this salad a complete main dish with added volume and nutrients.
• Optional add-ons – Vegan feta cheese – Try this creamy feta for that rich, salty touch and protein boost. A drizzle of our Vegan Arugula Basil Pesto or some artichoke hearts and green onions for an extra kick.

How to Make This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

This recipe makes four entree-size servings and takes about 15 minutes to make if you have cooked quinoa on hand. If you do not, this recipe will take about 35 to 40 minutes to prepare.

Cook and Cool the Quinoa (If Necessary)

If you don't have quinoa already prepared, and you’re starting with dry quinoa, you'll need about ½ cup of dry quinoa. This will yield 1-½ cups cooked. Check out how to cook quinoa for instructions to prepare in the pressure cooker or stovetop. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature for the best texture.

Make the Dressing

Prepare the lemon vinaigrette dressing (or oil-free Greek dressing) according to recipe instructions. Whichever you choose, these salad dressings take less than 10 minutes to make.

Prepare the Veggies

Chop all your fresh veggies, including red peppers, red onion, cucumber, parsley, and grape or cherry tomatoes. Be sure to use pitted kalamata olives—chopping olives is optional. If you have whole, but not sliced almonds, roughly chop the almonds into smaller pieces.

Mix It All Together

In a large serving bowl or large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, and all prepped ingredients except the greens. Pour in the lemon vinaigrette dressing and toss well.

Serve and Enjoy

Layer the salad over mixed greens, top with homemade vegan feta or other optional toppings (if using), and enjoy immediately. Or store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with pita bread and garlic hummus for a full Mediterranean meal.
• Add extra protein like air fryer tofu or air fryer tempeh for a post-workout meal.
• Drizzle with balsamic vinegar or top with fresh herbs like mint or dill for a refreshing twist.
• If you're making this for brunch, pair it with our mango matcha latte, strawberry matcha latte, pineapple matcha latte, or matcha smoothie.

Why This Is One of the Best Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipes

Not only is this a healthy Mediterranean quinoa salad, but it also makes for delicious salads that work across meals. Whether you're prepping lunch for the week, hosting a summer get-together, or making this for a potluck, this great recipe delivers on taste and convenience.

If you're looking for hearty salads with simple ingredients, this is a delicious addition to your rotation. Packed with fresh veggies, healthy fats, and creamy feta, it brings out the best flavor of the Mediterranean diet.

Related Recipes to Check Out

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