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Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Smoky Paprika Vinaigrette

by
S
Sophie

A vibrant and nutritious Mediterranean-inspired quinoa salad, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

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Preparation time (min) 15 min
Cooking time (min) 15 min
Difficulty
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Smoky Paprika Vinaigrette

Ingredients

4 servings
|
  • 1 cup
    Quinoa white or Couscous
  • 1 can
    Garbanzo beans canned or Black beans
  • 1 whole
    Cucumber English or Zucchini
  • 1 cup
    Cherry tomatoes ripe or Grape tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup
    Mint leaves fresh or Parsley
  • 1/2 cup
    Feta cheese crumbled or Goat cheese
  • 2 tbsp
    Sherry vinegar aged or Red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp
    Smoked paprika sweet or Regular paprika
  • 1/4 cup
    Olive oil extra virgin or Avocado oil
  • as needed
    Salt fine or Sea salt
  • as needed
    Black pepper freshly ground or White pepper

Instructions

1

Prepare the quinoa

Cook the quinoa in a large saucepan with salted water until tender, then drain and let cool.

Rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove its natural bitterness.

Ingredients needed for this step

quinoa
2

Mix the salad ingredients

Combine the garbanzo beans, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, mint leaves, and half of the feta cheese in a large serving bowl.

Chop the vegetables uniformly for a consistent texture.

Ingredients needed for this step

garbanzo beans cucumber cherry tomatoes mint leaves feta cheese
3

Make the dressing

Whisk together the sherry vinegar, smoked paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

Gradually add the oil while whisking for a well-emulsified dressing.

Ingredients needed for this step

sherry vinegar smoked paprika olive oil salt black pepper
4

Dress the salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Toss the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.

Ingredients needed for this step

dressing
5

Garnish and serve

Sprinkle the remaining feta cheese on top and serve.

Add a sprig of mint on top for a decorative touch.

Ingredients needed for this step

feta cheese

Nutrition Facts (100g)

Calories 150 kcal
Fat 7.5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
Carbohydrates 18 g
Fiber 3 g
Sugar 2 g
Protein 5 g

Learn More About This Recipe

📝

About this Recipe

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Smoky Paprika Vinaigrette is a delightful blend of wholesome quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a smoky, tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
💪

Why This Recipe Is Good For You

This recipe is packed with protein-rich quinoa, fiber-filled vegetables, and healthy fats from olive oil, making it a balanced and nutritious choice.
💡

Tips & Tricks

For the best flavor, let the salad sit for 15 minutes after tossing with the dressing to allow the flavors to meld together.
🔄

Recipe Variations

You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for a non-vegetarian version, or substitute the feta with a vegan cheese for a plant-based option.
🗄️

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time.
📚

Recipe History

Quinoa has been a staple in South American cuisine for centuries, and its versatility has made it popular worldwide in dishes like this salad.
🥗

Nutritional Information

This salad is high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
🍽️

Pairing Suggestions

Pair this salad with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a complete meal.

Tags

healthy quick vegetarian light salad

Recipe Categories

Cuisine

mediterranean other

Meal Type

lunch dinner brunch snack

Course

salad side dish

Cooking Methods

boiling other

Occasions

everyday picnic brunch potluck

Dietary Restrictions

vegetarian low-sugar halal kosher

Allergens

milk

Seasons

summer all-season

Difficulty

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