Mediterranean Lemon Herb Quinoa 🇬🇷

A Fresh, Zesty, and Protein-Packed Grain Dish

Mediterranean Lemon Herb Quinoa is a light, refreshing, and nutrient-dense dish packed with fresh herbs, tangy lemon, and a hint of garlic. This versatile dish can be served warm or chilled, making it perfect for meal prep, picnics, or as a vibrant side to your favorite Mediterranean meals.

🥣 Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

✅ 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained

✅ 2 cups vegetable broth or water

✅ 2 tbsp olive oil

✅ 1 small red onion, finely diced

✅ 2 cloves garlic, minced

✅ Juice and zest of 1 large lemon

✅ ½ tsp salt

✅ ½ tsp black pepper

✅ ½ tsp cumin

✅ ½ tsp oregano

✅ ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

✅ ¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced

✅ ¼ cup cucumber, diced

✅ ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

✅ ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped

✅ ¼ cup toasted pine nuts (optional)

For Serving:

✅ Crumbled vegan feta (optional)

✅ Lemon wedges

✅ Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Quinoa – In a medium pot, bring vegetable broth (or water) to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.

2️⃣ Prepare the Aromatics – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, black pepper, cumin, and oregano.

3️⃣ Toss the Ingredients – Add the cooked quinoa, red onion, cherry tomatoes, olives, cucumber, parsley, and mint to the bowl. Toss everything gently until well combined.

4️⃣ Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and crumbled vegan feta (if using). Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and serve with lemon wedges.

A Fresh, Zesty, and Protein-Packed Grain Dish Mediterranean Lemon Herb Quinoa 🇬🇷

🍽️ Best Pairings for Lemon Herb Quinoa

🥙 Falafel & Hummus – A perfect side to crispy falafel and creamy hummus.

🍆 Grilled Vegetables – Complements roasted eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers.

🥗 Mediterranean Mezze Platter – Serve with olives, pita bread, and tahini dressing.

🌍 Cultural Insights & Historical Notes

Quinoa, though native to South America, is a beloved grain in modern Mediterranean cuisine due to its light texture and nutty flavor. The combination of lemon, olive oil, and fresh herbs reflects the traditional Greek and Lebanese cooking styles, where simplicity and freshness take center stage.