Mediterranean Quinoa Salad makes a refreshing vegetarian side dish or main event. The roasted red peppers are bursting with flavour and are complemented by the cilantro and green onions. Quinoa is the gluten free base for this dish and it is a great source of protein that will keep you feeling satisfied. This light and tangy salad will wow your health conscious friends (or anyone for that matter) at a potluck.

Mediterranean Diet

Ever wonder why people living in the Mediterranean look so healthy? Maybe it’s the amazing weather or the beautiful scenery, but I think the secret is in the diet! Studies have shown that the Mediterranean Diet plays a key role in reducing the risk of heart disease and metabolic syndrome which leads to diabetes. The Mediterranean Diet is composed of fruit, veggies, fish and whole grains with a splash of cholesterol lowering olive oil. It limits unhealthy fats and red meat which have been shown to contribute to cardiovascular disease.

This recipe tastes great with a fresh red pepper or a roasted red pepper. If you are in the roasting mood, roast the whole red pepper in the oven at 400F  for 20 minutes. Let it cool until it is cool enough to touch, this will give the skin time to loosen up and makes it easier to peel.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

(gluten free, vegetarian, nut free)

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes
Serving size: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 red pepper
• 1 cup uncooked quinoa
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of one lime
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2  cup cilantro, chopped
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 1 Tbsp chia seeds
• 1 cup feta cheese, drained and diced (optional)
• 1/2 cup black olives, chopped (optional)

Directions:

1. If you are roasting the red pepper, pre-heat oven to 400F. Wash the red pepper and place it whole on a baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes turning every 5 minutes until all of the sides are darker in color. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes. When the pepper is cool enough to touch, peel off the skin and remove the seeds. Dice into 1 cm squares.
2. Cook quinoa as directed on the package. When the quinoa is cooked set it aside to cool.
3. In a large bowl combine olive oil, lime, cumin, salt and pepper. Whisk until mixed. Add the cilantro, green onions, chia seeds, feta cheese, black olives and red pepper and toss.
4. Finally add the quinoa, toss until mixed and serve the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad at room temperature or place in the fridge to serve chilled.

Do you have a favourite Mediterranean recipe? Please share it in the comments section!