Life moves fast, and your kitchen should keep up without sacrificing flavor. My Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers is the ultimate solution for anyone who needs a nutritious, restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. This dish combines the zesty brightness of fresh citrus with the satisfying crunch of garden-fresh vegetables.
You get a perfect balance of plant-based protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates in every single bite. I rely on this recipe during my busiest work weeks because it requires minimal cleanup and zero complicated techniques. Whether you need a refreshing lunch or a reliable side dish for your next dinner party, this Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers delivers exactly what you need. Stop settling for boring salads and start making food that actually fuels your hustle.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers
- Explosive Mediterranean Flavor: The combination of tangy lemon, salty feta, and fresh herbs creates a vibrant taste profile that never gets old.
- Complete Meal Prep Hero: This Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- High Protein and Fiber: Quinoa provides all nine essential amino acids, making this Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers a nutritional powerhouse.
- Quick and Efficient: You can chop all your vegetables while the quinoa boils, meaning you are out of the kitchen and back to your life in record time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the best Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers, you must focus on fresh, high-quality components. High-quality olive oil and fresh-squeezed lemon juice make a world of difference compared to bottled alternatives. Here is everything you need to assemble this masterpiece.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Quinoa | 1 Cup | Rinsed well; white, red, or tri-color works great. |
| English Cucumber | 1 Large | Diced; these have thinner skins and fewer seeds. |
| Feta Cheese | 1/2 Cup | Crumbled; use sheep’s milk feta for the best tang. |
| Fresh Parsley | 1/2 Cup | Finely chopped; flat-leaf Italian parsley is preferred. |
| Fresh Mint | 1/4 Cup | Finely chopped; adds a cooling, aromatic finish. |
| Red Onion | 1/4 Cup | Finely minced; soak in cold water to mellow the bite. |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 3 Tablespoons | Use a robust, cold-pressed variety. |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | 2 Tablespoons | Always use real lemons, never the plastic squeeze bottle. |
| Lemon Zest | 1 Teaspoon | Provides intense citrus essential oils. |
| Salt and Pepper | To Taste | Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. |
Substitutions & Variations
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
I love recipes that adapt to what is currently in my pantry. If you want to put a different spin on your Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers, try these healthy swaps. If you are out of quinoa, pearl couscous or farro provide a lovely chewy texture, though they are not gluten-free.
For a vegan-friendly version, simply omit the feta or use a high-quality almond-based vegan cheese. You can also boost the protein by adding a can of rinsed chickpeas or some grilled chicken breast.
If you prefer a bit of sweetness, a handful of dried cranberries or golden raisins complements the Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers perfectly. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing adds a subtle kick without overpowering the fresh herbs.
If you’re interested in integrating more lemony goodness into your meals, you should try out the Lemon Garlic Grilled Cod for a delightful twist. The vibrant flavors of the salad will pair beautifully with the cod, making for a delicious dinner experience. Lemon Garlic Grilled Cod
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: Start by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove the bitter saponin coating. Combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water or vegetable broth in a small pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Once the water is absorbed, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Prep the Vegetables: While the quinoa cooks, dice your English cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Mince the red onion finely and chop the fresh parsley and mint. If you find red onions too sharp, let the minced pieces sit in a small bowl of cold water for 5 minutes, then drain. This keeps the crunch but removes the lingering aftertaste in your Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers.
- Whisk the Vinaigrette: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. This simple emulsion serves as the bright, zesty base for the Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers.
- Combine Everything: Add the fluffed, slightly cooled quinoa to the mixing bowl with the dressing. Toss well to ensure every grain is coated. Fold in the diced cucumbers, minced onions, chopped herbs, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Chill and Serve: You can serve the Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers immediately at room temperature, but I recommend chilling it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the quinoa to soak up the dressing and the flavors to fully develop.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers turns out perfect every time, keep these professional tips in mind. First, always toast your quinoa in the pot with a teaspoon of oil for 2 minutes before adding water. This creates a nuttier flavor and prevents the grains from becoming mushy.
Second, use an English cucumber or Persian cucumbers. Standard garden cucumbers have thick, waxy skins and large seeds that can make your Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers watery. Third, wait for the quinoa to cool slightly before adding the feta and fresh herbs.
If the quinoa is steaming hot, it will wilt the herbs and melt the cheese into a clump. You want distinct textures in every bite of your Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers.
To complement the zesty Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad, enhance your mealtime experience with a refreshing Strawberry Lemonade Mocktail. This drink adds a perfect balance to the meal, refreshing your palate between bites. Strawberry Lemonade Mocktail
Storage & Reheating Tips
The beauty of the Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers lies in its longevity. You should store any leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator. This salad stays fresh and delicious for up to 4 days.
Because it contains fresh cucumbers, it may release a little moisture over time. If the salad looks a bit dry on day three, simply add a small squeeze of fresh lemon and a drizzle of olive oil to revive the textures. I do not recommend freezing this Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers, as the cucumbers and feta will lose their structural integrity upon thawing.
This is strictly a “cold” salad, so no reheating is required! It is the perfect grab-and-go meal for busy professionals who do not have time to wait for the office microwave.
What to Serve With This Recipe
While this Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers is a complete meal on its own, it also functions as a versatile side dish. I frequently pair it with Mediterranean-inspired proteins to create a well-rounded feast. Here are a few of my favorite healthy pairings:
- Lemon Garlic Grilled Salmon: The acidity in the Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers cuts through the richness of the fatty fish beautifully.
- Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables: Serve this alongside roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant for a fiber-rich vegetarian dinner.
- Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs: The juicy chicken provides a warm contrast to the chilled Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers.
- Warm Pita and Hummus: Create a mezze platter by adding some creamy hummus and toasted pita bread to the table.
While enjoying your Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad, consider serving it alongside Grilled Lemon Garlic Fish for an added burst of flavor. The combination of the salad and fish creates a hearty, yet light dinner option that is perfect for any occasion. Grilled Lemon Garlic Fish
FAQs
Can I use different types of herbs in this salad?
Absolutely! While I love the classic combination of parsley and mint for the Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers, you can easily swap them for fresh dill, cilantro, or even a bit of basil. Just make sure you use fresh herbs rather than dried ones, as the fresh aromatics are what make this dish truly shine.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free. This makes the Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers an excellent choice for anyone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. Always double-check your feta cheese packaging to ensure no gluten-containing additives were used during processing.
How can I make the quinoa fluffier?
The secret to fluffy quinoa in your Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers is the resting period. After the water is absorbed, never skip the 5-minute rest with the lid on. This allows the steam to finish cooking the grains gently. Then, use a fork to fluff it, never a spoon, which can mash the delicate grains.
A healthy and balanced diet often includes a variety of salads, with this dish being a popular choice for its nutritional benefits and vibrant flavors. Salads can be prepared in numerous ways, and many recipes focus on combining ingredients like grains, vegetables, and proteins to create satisfying meals, such as this flavorful creation made with quinoa and fresh herbs. For more insights on nutritious meals, check out this salad overview.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
This Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers is as healthy as it is delicious. This summary covers a standard serving size (approximately 1.5 cups).
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 kcal |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Protein | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 310mg |
I guarantee that once you try this Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers, it will become a permanent fixture in your weekly meal rotation. It proves that you do not need hours in the kitchen to enjoy a fresh, vibrant, and wholesome meal. Get out there, get cooking, and enjoy the extra time you saved by mastering this 30-minute wonder!
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Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumbers is a refreshing and nutritious dish combining the zest of fresh lemon, the creaminess of feta cheese, and the crunch of cucumbers. It's quick to prepare, high in protein and fiber, and perfect for meal prep or as a side dish.
Ingredients
1 cup Quinoa
1 large English Cucumber
1/2 cup Feta Cheese
1/2 cup Fresh Parsley
1/4 cup Fresh Mint
1/4 cup Red Onio
3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
1 teaspoon Lemon Zest
Salt and Pepper to Taste
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water. Combine with water or vegetable broth in a pot. Boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Let sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing
- Dice the cucumber, mince the red onion, and chop parsley and mint. Soak red onion in cold water for 5 minutes if too sharp
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper
- Add the fluffed quinoa to the dressing, toss well. Fold in cucumber, onion, herbs, and feta
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving
Notes
Use a robust olive oil for better flavor. Allow quinoa to cool before mixing in herbs and cheese to maintain texture.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 285 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg