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Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad (Fresh, Healthy, and Perfectly Balanced)
If you’re looking for a salad that’s refreshing, nourishing, and incredibly easy to prepare, Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad is the answer. This vibrant dish combines fluffy quinoa, crisp cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, and a bright lemon dressing for a salad that’s light yet satisfying.
Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or meal-prep staple, this salad delivers clean flavors and wholesome ingredients without sacrificing taste. It’s inspired by Mediterranean flavors, known for their simplicity and reliance on fresh, high-quality components. Every bite is cool, zesty, and balanced with just the right amount of creaminess from the feta.
This salad shines year-round but is especially popular during warmer months when fresh cucumbers and herbs are at their peak. It’s naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and easy to customize based on what you have on hand.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad
One of the best things about this salad is how effortlessly it comes together. Once your quinoa is cooked and cooled, everything else is simply chopped and tossed together. There’s no cooking beyond the quinoa itself, making this an excellent option for busy days.
The texture contrast is another standout feature—soft quinoa, crunchy cucumber, creamy feta, and crisp red onion all work together beautifully. The lemon vinaigrette ties everything together with a clean, refreshing finish that keeps the salad from feeling heavy.
It’s also an ideal make-ahead dish. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa, cooled
- 1½ cups cucumber, diced (English or Persian preferred)
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Lemon Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook quinoa according to package instructions and allow it to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, diced cucumber, red onion, and fresh herbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Fold in crumbled feta cheese.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Chill for 15 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad
A fresh and healthy quinoa salad with crisp cucumber, feta cheese, and lemon dressing.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook quinoa and allow to cool completely.
- Combine quinoa, cucumber, onion, and herbs in a bowl.
- Whisk dressing ingredients together.
- Toss salad with dressing and fold in feta.
Notes
Chill before serving for best flavor.
Pro Tips for the Best Quinoa Salad
- Cool the quinoa fully before mixing to prevent sogginess.
- Use seedless cucumbers to keep the salad crisp.
- Add feta last to maintain its texture.
- Fluff quinoa with a fork before adding to the bowl.
Tasty Variations
- Mediterranean Style: Add cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives.
- Protein Boost: Add chickpeas or grilled chicken.
- Herb Swap: Try mint or basil for a fresh twist.
- Creamier Version: Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the dressing.
What to Serve with Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or seafood. It’s also perfect on its own as a light lunch or picnic dish. Serve alongside hummus, pita bread, or a simple soup for a complete meal.
Storage & Meal Prep
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving and add a splash of lemon juice if needed to refresh the flavors.
Why Quinoa Works So Well
Quinoa is a complete protein and absorbs flavors beautifully, making it an excellent base for fresh salads. Its mild, nutty taste complements bright ingredients like cucumber and lemon without overpowering them