As the temperatures rise, our taste buds crave refreshing and light meals that still pack a punch. One such dish is the humble quinoa salad, especially when paired with the tangy, crumbly goodness of feta cheese. In this article, we’ll explore 20 refreshing quinoa salad recipes that incorporate feta for summer. From Mediterranean-inspired combinations to zesty citrus-based dressings, these salads are sure to satisfy your cravings and provide a delightful respite from the heat.
Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, our selection of quinoa salad recipes with feta has something for everyone. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in the flavors of summer!
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta and Olives
This vibrant salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the brininess of feta cheese, the savory taste of olives, and a hint of Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, parsley, and mint.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time: 5 minutes, cooking time: none)
Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumber
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing quinoa salad, infused with the brightness of lemon and herbs, paired with crumbly feta and crunchy cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and parsley)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked quinoa, mixed greens, mint leaves, lemon juice, and olive oil. Toss to combine.
2. Top the quinoa mixture with crumbled feta cheese.
3. Arrange cucumber slices on top of the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (cooking time for quinoa)
Greek-Inspired Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cherry Tomatoes
This refreshing quinoa salad combines the flavors of Greece with creamy feta, sweet cherry tomatoes, and nutty quinoa. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, crumbled feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and olives.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado and Feta Quinoa Salad with Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of avocado, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the nutty flavor of quinoa, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions. Let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped cilantro.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (cooking quinoa) + preparation time
Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad with Feta Cheese
This hearty quinoa salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables with the tanginess of crumbled feta cheese, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cubed
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. Toss sweet potato, red bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa and let cool.
5. Combine roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and parsley or cilantro (if using) in a bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spinach and Feta Quinoa Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the creaminess of feta cheese, the earthy taste of spinach, and the tanginess of a homemade balsamic glaze. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth. Let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, spinach leaves, feta cheese, and red onion.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. To make balsamic glaze, simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar over low heat until reduced by half. Stir occasionally.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beet and Feta Quinoa Salad with Walnuts
This vibrant salad combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the tanginess of crumbled feta, all on a bed of nutty quinoa and crunchy walnuts. A perfect side dish or light lunch for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap beets in foil and roast for about 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Once beets are cool enough to handle, peel and dice into bite-sized pieces.
5. Add cooked quinoa, diced beets, crumbled feta, and chopped walnuts to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Quinoa Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, featuring the tangy combination of sun-dried tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese on a bed of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, parsley, and feta cheese.
2. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and toss gently.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep) + no cooking time needed for ingredients
Pomegranate and Feta Quinoa Salad with Mint
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of pomegranate seeds, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the freshness of mint leaves, all on a bed of nutty quinoa. Perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a healthy side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, pomegranate seeds, feta cheese, and mint leaves.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chickpea and Feta Quinoa Salad with Tahini Dressing
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with creamy chickpeas, crumbly feta cheese, and a tangy tahini dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is also packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or vegetable broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kale and Feta Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the earthy flavors of kale, tangy feta cheese, and nutty quinoa, all tied together with a bright and citrusy lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped kale, and crumbled feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking quinoa)
Watermelon and Feta Quinoa Salad with Basil
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of watermelon, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the brightness of fresh basil. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 3 cups diced watermelon (about 1 small to medium-sized melon)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped basil.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Zucchini and Feta Quinoa Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of grilled zucchini, tangy feta cheese, and nutty quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush zucchini with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, crumbled feta cheese, and grilled zucchini.
4. Drizzle lemon juice over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pear and Feta Quinoa Salad with Honey Drizzle
This sweet and savory quinoa salad combines the natural sweetness of pears with the tanginess of feta cheese, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 ripe pears, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced pears, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
2. Drizzle the mixture with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and 1 tablespoon of warm water until well combined.
4. Pour the honey drizzle over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus cooking time for quinoa)
Spicy Mango and Feta Quinoa Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of mango with the tanginess of feta cheese, all on a bed of nutty quinoa. Perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (depending on desired level of spiciness)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, mango, feta cheese, cilantro, lime juice, honey, and ginger. Mix well.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in sriracha sauce to desired level of spiciness.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carrot and Feta Quinoa Salad with Cumin Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of carrots, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the nutty flavor of quinoa, all tied together with a warm cumin dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, grated carrots, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and ground cumin.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Black Bean and Feta Quinoa Salad with Cilantro
This vibrant salad combines the creamy richness of feta cheese with the earthy sweetness of black beans, all tied together with a burst of fresh cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, feta cheese, and cilantro.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to combine.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash and Feta Quinoa Salad
This hearty salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the tanginess of crumbled feta cheese, all on a bed of nutty quinoa. Perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the butternut squash and chop into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a large bowl, toss squash with olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper until coated.
4. Spread squash mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
5. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups water or broth.
6. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and stir in roasted squash, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley or cilantro (if using).
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Apple and Feta Quinoa Salad with Maple Dressing
This hearty salad combines the sweetness of apples with the tanginess of feta cheese, all wrapped up in a nutty quinoa package. Perfect for a crisp fall evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 apples, diced (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced apples, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on cooking method)
Herbed Quinoa Salad with Feta and Pine Nuts
This refreshing quinoa salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the tanginess of feta cheese, the crunch of pine nuts, and a hint of fresh herbs. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Once quinoa is cooked, fluff with a fork and add it to the bowl.
4. Stir in crumbled feta cheese and pine nuts.
5. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing quinoa salad recipes featuring feta cheese! From Mediterranean-inspired dishes to flavorful combinations with roasted vegetables and tangy citrus, there’s something for everyone. Try the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta and Olives, Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cucumber, or Spicy Mango and Feta Quinoa Salad. With a total of 20 recipes, you’ll find inspiration to create light and satisfying meals perfect for hot summer days.
