Picture this: the sun is shining, the garden is in full bloom, and you’re craving something light yet satisfying. Enter my Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta—a vibrant dish that’s as refreshing as a summer breeze. This salad is a delightful fusion of crunchy cucumbers, nutty quinoa, and creamy feta cheese, all tied together with a hint of dill.
What I love about this recipe is not just its incredible flavor but also how effortlessly it comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a quick lunch option, this gluten-free and vegetarian salad is sure to impress. Plus, it brings that Mediterranean-inspired touch to your table, brightening up any meal.
So let’s dive in and whip up a bowl of this nutritious goodness that’s perfect for any occasion!
Why is this Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta so special?
Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
Refreshing Flavor: The combination of crunchy cucumbers and tangy feta creates a light and vibrant experience on your palate.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at barbecues or as a main dish topped with your favorite protein for added heartiness.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this salad is both gluten-free and vegetarian, catering to a variety of dietary preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this salad is sure to impress everyone at your table.
Feel free to check out other Mediterranean-inspired recipes for more delicious options!
Easy Cucumber Quinoa Feta Ingredients
• Dive into the flavors of this Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta!
For the Salad
- Quinoa – A gluten-free grain providing structure and protein; cook according to package instructions for about 15 minutes.
- English Cucumber – Provides refreshing crunch; cut into quarters for the best texture.
- Red Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and crunch; can be substituted with other bell peppers.
- Red Onion – Offers a sharp flavor; finely diced to prevent overpowering the salad, or substitute with green onions for a milder taste.
- Chopped Walnuts – Introduces nuttiness and texture; can replace with almonds for a different crunch.
- Chopped Fresh Dill – Fantastic herb that adds freshness; parsley can be used as an alternative.
For the Dressing
- Feta Cheese Crumbles – Adds creaminess and tang; goat cheese can be an alternative for a different flavor.
- Garlic – Enhances the salad’s flavor profile; minced for even distribution.
- Lemon Juice – Provides acidity and brightness to balance flavors; fresh lemon is preferred.
- Olive Oil – Acts as the base for the dressing, adding richness; can use another type of oil if desired.
- Cracked Pepper – For seasoning; enhances overall taste.
- Sea Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to taste.
How to Make Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta
-
Cook the Quinoa: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water, then boil it in a saucepan with 2 cups of water. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy. Let it cool completely afterward.
-
Chop the Veggies: Dice 1 English cucumber, 1 red bell pepper, and half a red onion into small pieces. This will ensure every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooled quinoa, chopped cucumber, bell pepper, walnuts, dill, and red onion. Stir gently to combine without mashing the ingredients.
-
Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the juice from 1 lemon, 2 cloves minced garlic, ¼ cup olive oil, sea salt, and cracked pepper. This will create a zesty dressing.
-
Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated, allowing all those delicious flavors to meld.
-
Add Feta: Gently fold in 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese. Be careful not to crush the cheese too much, preserving its creamy texture.
-
Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
-
Store Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Drizzle with a little more olive oil before serving to keep it fresh.
Optional: Garnish with extra dill or a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the quinoa and chop the vegetables (cucumber, bell pepper, and onion) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator, which helps maintain their freshness and crunch. When you’re ready to serve, combine all components with the dressing and gently fold in the feta cheese. This salad can be enjoyed for up to 3 days after prep, so you’ll have a quick and delicious meal at your fingertips, just waiting to brighten up your busy week!
Expert Tips for Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta
-
Perfect Quinoa: Rinse before cooking to remove bitterness. Follow package instructions accurately to achieve fluffy grains for your Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta.
-
Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for 15-20 minutes enhances flavors, creating a refreshing dish that’s even more enjoyable.
-
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to cucumbers and feta, to truly elevate the flavor of your salad.
-
Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to adjust the olive oil and lemon juice to your taste. A bit more lemon can brighten the salad even further!
-
Store Smartly: For the best texture, consume within 3 days. Add a drizzle of olive oil to leftover salad to keep it from drying out.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta
-
Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For optimum freshness, consume it within 3 days to enjoy the crispness of the vegetables.
-
Leftover Tips: Before serving leftovers, drizzle an extra bit of olive oil to prevent the salad from drying out, ensuring it retains that creamy flavor with the feta.
-
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the cucumbers and feta may lose their texture upon thawing. Enjoy it fresh for the best flavor experience.
Easy Cucumber Quinoa Feta Variations
Explore delightful twists and adaptations for your salad!
-
Cherry Tomatoes: Replace cucumbers or add them for a burst of juicy sweetness that pairs beautifully with feta.
A little pop of color on your plate never hurts! -
Toasted Pine Nuts: Swap walnuts for toasted pine nuts to introduce a gourmet touch with a deeper nutty flavor.
Their crunch adds an elegant finish that elevates each bite. -
Chickpeas: For a heartier version, mix in chickpeas to boost protein content and make it a filling meal.
They’ll not only enhance texture but also keep you satisfied longer! -
Avocado: Add creamy avocado cubes for richness that complements the tangy feta perfectly.
This dreamy addition offers a delightful creaminess everyone loves. -
Cilantro: Substitute dill with fresh cilantro for a unique twist that brings a zesty kick to your salad.
The contrast will surprise and delight your taste buds! -
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
It’s perfect for those who love a bit of spice in their meals. -
Olives: Toss in some sliced olives for an additional burst of flavor, enhancing the Mediterranean theme.
Their briny taste pairs wonderfully with the other fresh ingredients. -
Zucchini Noodles: Mix in spiralized zucchini for a refreshing alternative that adds bulk without extra calories.
It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some more veggies!
What to Serve with Easy Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad?
Picture a warm day filled with laughter and good company, and you’re craving dishes that celebrate bright and fresh flavors.
-
Grilled Chicken: Tender marinated chicken adds heartiness, perfectly complementing the fresh crunch of the salad while providing protein.
-
Pita Bread with Hummus: Soft, warm pita works beautifully for scooping. The creaminess of hummus enhances the Mediterranean theme of your meal.
-
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant brings an irresistible caramelized flavor that pairs delightfully with the salad’s freshness.
-
Chickpea Patties: Crispy and packed with protein, these patties provide a satisfying crunch and a protein boost, making the meal more filling.
-
Sparkling Lemonade: The zesty brightness of sparkling lemonade elevates the meal, quenching your thirst and complimenting the flavors of your salad effortlessly.
-
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit medley adds natural sweetness and balances the savory notes of the salad, perfect for a light dessert.
For a delightful feast, combine a few of these suggestions to create a well-rounded culinary experience!
Easy Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad Recipe FAQs
What kind of cucumbers should I use for this salad?
Absolutely! Use English cucumbers for their refreshing crunch and thin skin, but feel free to substitute other varieties if you prefer. Just make sure to slice them thinly, so they integrate well with the rest of the ingredients.
How should I store leftovers?
To keep your Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables, aim to consume it within 3 days. Don’t forget to drizzle a little extra olive oil over the salad before serving leftovers to prevent it from becoming dry!
Can I freeze this salad?
I would advise against freezing this salad. The cucumbers and feta may lose their delightful texture when thawed, making the salad less enjoyable. Instead, savor it fresh within the recommended time frame for the best flavor experience.
What can I do if my quinoa turns out mushy?
If your quinoa ends up mushy, don’t worry! Start by rinsing it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, which can help with texture. If it’s still soft, try mixing in some extra chopped veggies or nuts to add some crunch. For your next attempt, remember to monitor the cooking time closely—about 15 minutes is usually perfect for fluffy quinoa!
What dietary restrictions does this salad accommodate?
Very! This Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta is both gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a fantastic choice for many dietary preferences. If you have nut allergies, feel free to substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens. And, if you want to enjoy it with added protein, grilled chicken or chickpeas could be great options.
Easy Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Feta: Refreshing and Quick
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water, then boil it in a saucepan with 2 cups of water. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy. Let it cool completely afterward.
- Dice 1 English cucumber, 1 red bell pepper, and half a red onion into small pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooled quinoa, chopped cucumber, bell pepper, walnuts, dill, and red onion. Stir gently to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the juice from 1 lemon, 2 cloves minced garlic, 0.25 cup olive oil, sea salt, and cracked pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Gently fold in 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese.
- Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container. Drizzle with a little more olive oil before serving.