Superfood Delight: Quinoa & Feta Vegetarian Salad for Four

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Hey there, foodies!

I'm thrilled to share with you a scrumptious and wholesome vegetarian salad recipe that's perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a potluck. This Quinoa & Feta Vegetarian Salad is not only delicious, but it's also filled with nutrients and super easy to make. Trust me, even your non-vegetarian friends will love it!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
  • 1 1/4 cups water
  • 1 vegetable bouillon cube
  • 7 oz feta cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • A handful of fresh mint, finely chopped

Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water and let it drain.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa, water, and vegetable bouillon cube. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the quinoa simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the quinoa is cooked. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  3. While the quinoa cools, prepare the dressing by mixing the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with the feta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and mint.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated.
  6. Allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

And there you have it - a mouthwatering Quinoa & Feta Vegetarian Salad that's perfect for any occasion. This vibrant, flavorful, and healthy dish will surely be a hit at your next gathering or family meal. Enjoy!

Don't forget to share your thoughts and photos of your Quinoa & Feta Vegetarian Salad in the comments below. And if you enjoyed this recipe, remember to like, share, and subscribe for more delicious and healthy meal ideas!

Bon appétit!

Vegan Variation:

For those following a vegan diet or looking for a dairy-free option, you can easily adapt this Quinoa & Feta Vegetarian Salad recipe. Instead of using feta cheese, opt for a vegan cheese alternative, like vegan feta or crumbled almond-based cheese. There are plenty of delicious plant-based cheese options on the market that will provide a similar taste and texture.

Here's the substitution for the vegan version:

  1. Replace the 7 oz feta cheese with an equal amount of your preferred vegan cheese alternative, cubed or crumbled.
  2. Follow the same instructions as the original recipe, swapping out the feta for your chosen vegan cheese. The result will be a delicious, nutrient-packed vegan salad that's perfect for lunch, dinner, or a potluck.

Enjoy this vegan twist on our Quinoa & Feta Vegetarian Salad, and be sure to share your thoughts and photos of your vegan creation in the comments below. Happy eating!

Wine advice

When pairing wine with this Quinoa & Feta Vegetarian Salad, you'll want to choose a wine that complements the fresh and vibrant flavors of the dish without overpowering them. Here are two options to consider:

  • Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp, light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc would pair well with this salad. Its bright acidity and citrus notes will complement the lemony dressing and the fresh vegetables in the salad. Sauvignon Blanc from regions like New Zealand or France's Loire Valley would be excellent choices.
  • Verdejo: Another great option is a Spanish Verdejo, which is also a light-bodied white wine with lively acidity. It has refreshing herbal and citrus flavors that would nicely balance the richness of the feta cheese and the quinoa.

Both of these wine options will enhance the flavors of the Quinoa & Feta Vegetarian Salad, making for a delightful dining experience. If you prefer a vegan wine, make sure to check the label or consult with the producer, as not all wines are vegan-friendly due to the fining agents used in the winemaking process.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Protein: 12.6g (19%)

Fat: 26.0g (39%)

Carbohydrates: 32.3g (42%)

*Please note that these values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

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