
Italian Quinoa Salad
Prep
15 mins
Cook
30 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
This Italian quinoa salad has become my go to dish whenever I want something wholesome but impressive. It comes together in under 45 minutes, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights, and honestly, most of the ingredients are pantry staples I always keep on hand. Quinoa is such a fantastic protein source, especially if you're eating less meat like I've been trying to do, and when you toss it with caramelized onions, olives, and fresh basil, it tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility too because you can prepare it ahead and it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 400 gquinoa
- 120 mlextra virgin olive oil
- 200 gcherry tomatoes(halved)
- 100 gfresh basil(chopped)
- 6 gsalt
- 3 gblack pepper
- 200 gcaramelized onions(caramelized)
- 150 gkalamata olives
- 100 gartichoke hearts
- 100 gfeta cheese
- 60 mllemon juice
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
Tip: Use a large bowl to rinse quinoa
- 2
In a medium saucepan, bring 800ml of water to a boil. Add the quinoa, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
Tip: Quinoa should be cooked until tender but still slightly firm
- 3
While the quinoa cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the caramelized onions and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Tip: Use a spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan
- 4
Add the cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, olives, and feta cheese to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
Tip: Use a spoon to stir the vegetables
- 5
Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the chopped basil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
Tip: Combine quinoa with vegetables and olive oil
- 6
To assemble the salad, divide the cooked quinoa among four plates. Top with the vegetable mixture and serve immediately.
Tip: Garnish with additional basil if desired
- 7
Serve the salad immediately and enjoy!
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