Are you looking for a nutritious and delicious meal option that’s packed with protein, fiber, and flavor? Look no further than quinoa salads! This ancient grain has been gaining popularity in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. With its mild nutty flavor and versatile texture, quinoa is the perfect base for a wide variety of salads.
One of our favorite ways to make quinoa more interesting is by adding crumbly feta cheese. The salty tanginess of feta pairs perfectly with the earthy sweetness of quinoa, creating a match made in heaven. In this article, we’ll explore 20 different quinoa salad recipes that feature feta as a main ingredient. From Mediterranean-inspired dishes to refreshing summer salads, there’s something for everyone on this list.
In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into each of these recipes and provide step-by-step instructions on how to prepare them. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary newbie, you’ll find inspiration in these quinoa salad recipes with feta that are sure to become new favorites.
Mediterranean quinoa salad with feta and olives
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the tanginess of feta cheese, the brininess of olives, and the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon herb quinoa salad with feta and cucumber
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the brightness of lemon, the creaminess of feta, and the crunch of cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using the water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Add cooked quinoa, parsley, feta cheese, and cucumber to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted vegetable quinoa salad with feta and balsamic glaze
Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad with Feta and Balsamic Glaze
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with the sweetness of roasted vegetables, tanginess of feta cheese, and richness of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cubed
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or vegetable broth.
3. Toss sweet potato, red bell pepper, and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, crumbled feta cheese, and balsamic glaze. Toss gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Greek-style quinoa salad with feta and cherry tomatoes
This refreshing quinoa salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the tanginess of feta cheese, sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and freshness of herbs. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, crumbled feta cheese, and halved cherry tomatoes.
2. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spinach and feta quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the tanginess of feta cheese, the earthiness of spinach, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, fresh spinach leaves, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil to make the vinaigrette.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Avocado and feta quinoa salad with lime dressing
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the creaminess of avocado, the tanginess of feta, and the nuttiness of quinoa. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato basil quinoa salad with feta and garlic
This refreshing quinoa salad combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the creaminess of feta, and the pungency of garlic, all tied together with fresh basil. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, feta cheese, and basil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including quinoa cooking time)
Beet and feta quinoa salad with walnuts
This sweet and savory quinoa salad combines the earthy flavor of roasted beets, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the crunch of walnuts for a delicious and healthy side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add roasted beets, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts. Toss to combine.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and add to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cucumber mint quinoa salad with feta and yogurt dressing
This salad is a perfect blend of refreshing flavors, textures, and nutrients. The quinoa adds a nutritious base, while the cucumber and mint provide a cool and creamy element.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, sliced cucumbers, chopped mint leaves, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the yogurt dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes cooking time for quinoa)
Sweet potato and feta quinoa salad with honey mustard
Sweet Potato and Feta Quinoa Salad with Honey Mustard
This hearty quinoa salad combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, the tanginess of feta cheese, and a drizzle of honey mustard for a delightful twist on traditional salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potato several times with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potato, crumbled feta cheese, honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (sweet potato), 15-20 minutes (quinoa)
Kale and feta quinoa salad with cranberries and almonds
This refreshing quinoa salad combines the earthy sweetness of kale, the tanginess of feta cheese, the crunch of almonds, and the tartness of cranberries for a delicious and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, massage chopped kale with olive oil until tender.
3. Add cooked quinoa, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and sliced almonds to the bowl.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy quinoa salad with feta, jalapeños, and black beans
This vibrant salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the creaminess of feta, the spiciness of jalapeños, and the earthiness of black beans. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, feta cheese, black beans, and cilantro.
2. Add chopped jalapeño and stir until well combined.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None, as quinoa is pre-cooked.
Pomegranate and feta quinoa salad with pistachios
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of pomegranate arils, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the crunch of pistachios, all on a bed of nutty quinoa. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup pomegranate arils
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, pomegranate arils, feta cheese, and pistachios.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including quinoa cooking time)
Chickpea and feta quinoa salad with tahini dressing
A flavorful and nutritious salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this quinoa bowl combines the creaminess of tahini dressing with the tanginess of feta cheese and the earthy taste of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Grilled corn and feta quinoa salad with cilantro lime dressing
Elevate your summer gatherings with this refreshing quinoa salad, featuring the sweetness of grilled corn and the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 ear of corn, grilled and sliced off the cob
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently, until slightly charred.
3. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
4. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, mixed greens, grilled corn, feta cheese, and cilantro.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
6. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-dried tomato and feta quinoa salad with pine nuts
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The combination of tender quinoa, tangy feta cheese, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced green olives
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons pine nuts
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, parsley, feta cheese, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with pine nuts and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time for quinoa)
Roasted red pepper and feta quinoa salad with basil
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of feta cheese, all on a bed of nutty quinoa. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. Roast red bell peppers in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
4. Peel skin off peppers, then slice into strips.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted peppers, feta cheese, and basil.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Apple and feta quinoa salad with honey walnut dressing
Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this refreshing quinoa salad, featuring crisp apples and tangy feta, all tied together with a drizzle of honey walnut dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach)
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, mixed greens, diced apple, and crumbled feta.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and olive oil until well combined.
3. Add chopped walnuts to the honey mixture and stir to coat.
4. Pour dressing over the quinoa salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pear and feta quinoa salad with arugula and balsamic
This sweet and savory quinoa salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of tender pears, crumbly feta, and peppery arugula creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 ripe pears, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced pears, and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Add arugula leaves on top of the quinoa mixture.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the salad and toss again to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Carrot and feta quinoa salad with ginger sesame dressing
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of roasted carrots with the tanginess of crumbled feta, all on a bed of nutty quinoa. A drizzle of our signature ginger sesame dressing brings everything together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Toss carrots with 1 tablespoon sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together remaining sesame oil, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted carrots, crumbled feta, and chopped parsley.
5. Drizzle the ginger sesame dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering quinoa salad recipes infused with the tanginess of feta. From Mediterranean-inspired dishes to sweet and savory combinations, these healthy meals are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Explore options like roasted vegetable and balsamic glaze, Greek-style with cherry tomatoes, and spicy black bean and jalapeño. Each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the nutty flavor of quinoa and the creaminess of feta. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for new ideas, these quinoa salads are sure to delight.
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