Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad: Fresh, Light, and Perfectly Balanced

Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad is a refreshing, protein-packed dish that brings together crisp vegetables, fluffy quinoa, and tangy feta cheese in one vibrant bowl. Light yet satisfying, this salad is ideal for warm weather meals, meal prep lunches, or as a bright side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood.

This recipe is inspired by Mediterranean flavors, focusing on freshness, texture, and balance. The cool crunch of cucumber pairs beautifully with nutty quinoa and creamy feta, while a simple lemon-olive oil dressing ties everything together without overpowering the ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

This cucumber quinoa feta salad checks all the boxes:

• Fresh and crisp texture
• Naturally gluten-free
• High in plant-based protein
• Quick and easy to prepare
• Perfect for make-ahead meals

It’s the kind of salad that feels nourishing without feeling heavy.

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 ½ cups cucumber, diced
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water.
2. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and fluff quinoa with a fork. Let cool completely.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, cucumber, red onion, and herbs.
6. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
7. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to combine.
8. Fold in feta cheese just before serving.

Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad

A fresh and healthy salad made with fluffy quinoa, crisp cucumber, tangy feta, and a bright lemon dressing.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Mediterranean

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup quinoa uncooked
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1.5 cups cucumber diced
• 0.5 cup feta cheese crumbled
• 0.25 cup red onion finely diced
• 2 tbsp fresh herbs parsley or dill
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice fresh

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Cook quinoa and let cool completely.
2. Combine quinoa with cucumber, onion, and herbs.
3. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss salad with dressing and fold in feta.

Notes

Chill before serving for best flavor.

Texture & Flavor Breakdown

• Quinoa: Fluffy and slightly nutty
• Cucumber: Cool, crisp, and refreshing
• Feta: Creamy, tangy, and salty
• Dressing: Bright, light, and citrusy

Every bite is clean, balanced, and satisfying.

Tips for the Best Quinoa Salad

• Let quinoa cool fully to avoid wilting cucumbers
• Use English or Persian cucumbers for less moisture
• Add feta last to keep it from breaking down
• Taste and adjust lemon or salt before serving

Delicious Variations

• Mediterranean Style: Add olives and cherry tomatoes
• Protein Boost: Add chickpeas or grilled chicken
• Vegan Version: Skip feta or use plant-based alternative
• Herb Forward: Add fresh mint for extra brightness

Serving Suggestions

Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled chicken or fish
• Kebabs or roasted vegetables
• Picnic spreads and potlucks
• Light lunches and meal prep

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 4 days
• Stir before serving to refresh texture
• Best served chilled or at room temperature

A Fresh Salad You’ll Make on Repeat

Cucumber Quinoa Feta Salad is simple, wholesome, and endlessly versatile. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll return to whenever you need something fresh, healthy, and delicious.