Follow Me On Social Media!
Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad (Fresh, Easy & Mediterranean-Inspired)
Few dishes capture the essence of fresh, simple, and nourishing food quite like Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad. Light yet satisfying, crisp yet creamy, this Mediterranean-inspired salad brings together fluffy quinoa, cool cucumbers, tangy feta, and a bright lemon-olive oil dressing in a way that feels both effortless and elegant. It’s the kind of recipe that works just as well for a quick weekday lunch as it does for a summer gathering, meal prep, or a healthy side dish.
This salad is more than just another “healthy bowl.” It’s a celebration of balance: protein-rich quinoa paired with hydrating vegetables, salty feta balanced by citrus, and herbs that add aroma without overpowering the dish. Whether you’re already a quinoa lover or just beginning to explore Mediterranean-style cooking, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad
There are countless reasons this salad keeps showing up in kitchens around the world:
- Quick & Easy: From start to finish, it comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Mediterranean-Inspired: Fresh vegetables, olive oil, lemon, and feta echo classic Mediterranean flavors.
- Nutritious & Filling: Quinoa adds plant-based protein and fiber, making the salad satisfying without feeling heavy.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores beautifully and tastes even better after the flavors meld.
- Versatile: Serve it as a side, a light main, or a base for grilled chicken or fish.
This is the kind of recipe that adapts to your lifestyle, not the other way around.
A Brief Mediterranean Connection
While quinoa itself originates from South America, its nutty flavor and fluffy texture make it a natural fit for Mediterranean-style dishes. The Mediterranean diet emphasizes whole grains, fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and simple preparation — all elements present in this cucumber quinoa feta salad.
Cucumbers are widely used across Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, valued for their cooling effect and crisp texture. Feta cheese, a staple in Greek cooking, adds saltiness and creaminess that ties the dish together. The result is a modern, globally inspired salad that feels timeless.
Ingredients
- Quinoa (white or tri-color), rinsed
- Fresh cucumbers, diced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Fresh parsley or mint, chopped
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice
- Lemon zest (optional but recommended)
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa
Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove bitterness. Add it to a saucepan with water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until fluffy. Let cool completely. - Prepare the Vegetables
Dice cucumbers into bite-sized pieces, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion. Chop fresh herbs last to preserve their aroma. - Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper until emulsified. - Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and herbs. - Add Feta & Dressing
Gently fold in crumbled feta, then drizzle the dressing over the salad. - Toss & Taste
Toss gently until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. - Serve or Chill
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Pro Tips for the Best Quinoa Salad
- Cool the quinoa fully before mixing to prevent melting the feta.
- Use seedless cucumbers for less moisture.
- Salt lightly at first — feta already adds saltiness.
- Chop evenly so every bite feels balanced.
- Add herbs just before serving for maximum freshness.
Delicious Variations
- Greek-Style: Add olives and oregano.
- Protein Boost: Top with grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp.
- Vegan Version: Skip feta or use a plant-based alternative.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in toasted pine nuts or almonds.
- Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeño.
Serving Suggestions
This cucumber quinoa feta salad pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled fish or chicken
- Roasted vegetables
- Pita bread and hummus
- As part of a mezze platter
- A light soup for a balanced meal
It’s equally at home at picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing work-from-home lunch.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving and refresh with a splash of lemon juice if needed. This salad is not freezer-friendly, but it’s ideal for short-term meal prep.
Health Benefits at a Glance
- Quinoa: Complete plant protein, gluten-free, high in fiber
- Cucumbers: Hydrating, low-calorie, refreshing
- Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats
- Feta: Calcium-rich, flavorful in small amounts
- Herbs & Lemon: Antioxidants and brightness
Healthy doesn’t have to be boring — and this salad proves it.
Final Thoughts
Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad is the definition of fresh, simple, and satisfying. It respects the ingredients, celebrates Mediterranean flavors, and fits effortlessly into modern, healthy lifestyles. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again — tweaking, sharing, and enjoying every crisp, tangy bite.
Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad
A fresh Mediterranean-inspired salad made with fluffy quinoa, crisp cucumbers, tangy feta, and a bright lemon olive oil dressing.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly. Cook with water according to package instructions until fluffy. Let cool.
- Dice cucumbers, halve tomatoes, and finely chop red onion and herbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, vegetables, and herbs.
- Gently fold in feta cheese.
- Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to combine.
- Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve or chill briefly before serving.
Notes
This salad tastes even better after chilling for 20–30 minutes.
