Salads can be enriched today thanks to the wide variety of ingredients available that add flavor, color, and texture, making this dish more nutritious—such as quinoa, an ancient grain that has gained global popularity. Despite being a food with thousands of years of history, quinoa is relatively new to Western diets. Over time, it has become increasingly popular, even being declared the International Year of Quinoa in 2013 due to its numerous health benefits. Quinoa...
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Place the quinoa in a bowl and cover it with water. Wash it several times, draining it through a sieve each time to remove the substance called saponin, which is indigestible and gives a bitter taste to dishes.
After the final rinse, place the quinoa in a saucepan, cover it with water, and cook for 12 minutes.
Drain and set aside to cool.
Cut the cherry tomatoes in half.
Slice the bell pepper and red onion into thin julienne strips.
Slice the cucumber into very thin rounds.
Cut the black olives in half.
Dice the feta cheese into small cubes.
In a small bowl, mix all the dressing ingredients: lemon juice, olive oil, fresh mint, salt, and black pepper.
In a serving dish, combine all the vegetables, the cooled quinoa, and the dressing.
Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Ensure you rinse the quinoa thoroughly to remove the bitter saponin coating.
Chill the salad before serving for a refreshing taste.
Adjust the seasoning in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or even mozzarella for a different flavor.
How do I store leftover salad?
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Avoid adding the dressing until ready to serve to keep it fresh.
Can I use pre-cooked quinoa?
Yes, pre-cooked quinoa can save time. Ensure it is properly rinsed and cooled before adding to the salad.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving.
Can I add more vegetables to the salad?
Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, kale, or grated carrots to enhance the nutritional value.
