14/02/2026
š„ Mediterranean Quinoa Salad (Heart-Healthy + Flavor-Packed!)
This Mediterranean quinoa salad is one of those recipes that checks all the boxes: fresh, satisfying, easy to prep, and genuinely good for your heart. Itās perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or base for grilled fish or chickenāand it tastes even better after it sits for a bit.
ā¤ļø Why this is so good for heart health
Quinoa is a whole grain rich in fiber and plant protein, which helps support healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
Extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats and polyphenols that support cardiovascular and blood vessel health.
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced heart disease risk.
Kalamata olives offer anti-inflammatory compounds and heart-healthy fats.
Cucumbers and fresh herbs add potassium, hydration, and antioxidants without excess sodium.
Apple cider vinegar may help with blood sugar regulation, which plays an important role in heart health.
This recipe follows the principles of the Mediterranean dietāone of the most studied and recommended eating patterns for protecting the heart.
š„ Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Quinoa
1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
½ tsp sea salt
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
Salad
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced or halved slices
¼ cup finely chopped red onion or shallot
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 Tbsp fresh mint or basil (optional but delicious)
Dressing
3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2ā3 Tbsp apple cider vinegar (to taste)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 small garlic clove, finely grated
½ tsp dried oregano
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
½ cup crumbled feta or dairy-free feta
Zest of ½ lemon
¼ cup toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds
Instructions
Bring quinoa, vegetable broth, and salt to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, let sit 5 minutes, then fluff and cool slightly.
Whisk all dressing ingredients together until well combined.
In a large bowl, combine quinoa, tomatoes, olives, cucumber, onion, and herbs.
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently.
Fold in any optional add-ins. Let sit 15ā20 minutes before serving so flavors meld.
Fresh, nourishing, and heart-healthyāthis is one of those recipes youāll keep coming back to. š