Signature Recipe
Mediterranean Chickpea and Quinoa Salad with Feta Dressing
A vibrant salad featuring chickpeas, quinoa, and a tangy feta dressing.
As the days grow warmer and the sun shines brighter, there’s nothing quite like a fresh, vibrant salad to brighten your table and your spirit. This delightful dish brings together the hearty goodness of chickpeas and the nutty, fluffy texture of quinoa, creating a satisfying meal that is both nourishing and delicious. The addition of juicy cherry tomatoes adds a burst of sweetness, while the tangy feta dressing ties all the flavors together with a delightful zing.
Cooking this salad is a breeze, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a colorful side for dinner. In just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking time, you’ll find yourself with a wholesome dish that serves four and is sure to impress. With the ease of preparation, you can focus on enjoying the vibrant colors and enticing aromas that fill your kitchen.
The quinoa, a tiny grain packed with protein, acts as the perfect base for this salad, soaking up the flavors of the dressing while providing a satisfying texture. Meanwhile, the chickpeas not only add a rich heartiness but also enhance the nutritional profile, making this dish a powerhouse of healthy ingredients. The cherry tomatoes, with their bright red hue, not only elevate the visual appeal but also provide a lovely contrast to the creamy feta dressing that you’ll whip up to finish off this delightful creation.
This recipe is an invitation to savor the tastes of the Mediterranean in your own home. Whether you’re enjoying it as a standalone meal or serving it alongside grilled meats or a hearty stew, this salad is sure to become a favorite. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get started on crafting a refreshing dish that celebrates the beauty of wholesome eating!
Mediterranean Chickpea and Quinoa Salad with Feta Dressing
Ingredient list and step-by-step instructions generated for AI Food Bytes readers.
Main
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
- 2 cups water (for cooking quinoa)
- 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for dressing)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (for flavor)
Steps
- In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy.
- In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper.
- Once quinoa is cooked, let it cool slightly before adding it to the vegetable mixture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese and serve chilled or at room temperature.
General Notes
- Serves 4
- A vibrant salad featuring chickpeas, quinoa, and a tangy feta dressing.