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Vegan Greek Quinoa Salad (with Option to Add Chicken)

Course: Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Additional Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 262kcal
Author: Lauren
This Greek Quinoa Salad is bursting fresh bright mediterranean flavors that will make this a go-to recipe all spring and summer long! A great vegan dish that can be served as a meal or side dish. You can also easily add chicken or your favorite protein if you're looking for an extra-protein kick.
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Ingredients

  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa (180g)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cups diced cucumber (150g)
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion (75g)
  • 1/3 cup sliced kalamata olives (50g)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 small lemon, squeezed 2 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil (15g)
  • 1 tsp each: Italian seasoning & onion powder

Instructions

  • First, rinse the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer under cold water for 1-2 minutes. Then add the rinsed quinoa, water and salt to a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat then reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until all the water has been absorbed. Then transfer quinoa to a large bowl and place in the fridge to cool for about 30 minutes.
  • While quinoa is cooling, prepare the rest of the ingredients (you can also do this while the quinoa is cooking). Then once the quinoa is mostly cool, fluff it up with a fork, then add the rest of the ingredients to the large bowl and mix well to combine. Taste and add any extra salt, pepper, lemon juice and/or seasoning to taste. 
  • Allow the flavors to meld together for 20 minutes before eating. Keep stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days. Serve with Greek Chicken for more protein or keep as is (or add beans) to keep this recipe vegan. This quinoa salad is best served chilled or at room temperature but you can heat up too!

Notes

Rinsing the quinoa well before cooking helps hydrate the seeds and soften the quinoa. If you don’t rinse, the quinoa usually doesn’t pop open as much and it has a firmer texture. The unrinsed quinoa also has a nuttier, earthier flavor. If you rinse it, the flavors are milder and the flavors of the other ingredients shine through more.
With Greek Chicken:
Per serving: 1/4 of salad (186g) + 70g cooked chicken
Nutrition per serving: 400 calories 37C / 12F / 36P 
MFP entry: LFF Greek Chicken Quinoa Salad

Nutrition

Serving: 1/4 of salad (186g) | Calories: 262kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 0.5g | Fiber: 4.7g | Sugar: 4.6g