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Easy Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Olives, Basil and Sun-dried Tomatoes recipe photo

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Olives, Basil and Sun-dried Tomatoes

A Mediterranean-style quinoa salad tossed with oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, marinated artichoke hearts, toasted pine nuts, fresh basil and Parmesan. Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Prep Time24 minutes
Cook Time32 minutes
Total Time1 hour 26 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1-1 1/2 cups quinoa use a certified gluten-free brand
  • 3 cups vegetable or chicken stock optional, to cook quinoa
  • 1/3 cup packed chopped drained oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
  • 1/2 cup artichoke heart quarters marinated
  • 1/2 cup pine nuts toasted
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large garlic cloves minced

Instructions

Instructions

  • In a medium saucepan, combine 1–1 1/2 cups quinoa and 3 cups vegetable or chicken stock. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat, keep covered for 5 minutes, then uncover and fluff with a fork. Let the quinoa cool to room temperature or until just warm.
  • Transfer the cooled quinoa to a large bowl.
  • Drain and, if not already chopped, chop the oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes. Add 1/3 cup packed chopped drained sun-dried tomatoes, 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives, and 1/2 cup marinated artichoke heart quarters to the quinoa. Toss gently to combine.
  • Add 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts, 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil, 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 large garlic cloves (minced) to the quinoa mixture. Fold gently until evenly distributed.
  • Taste and, if desired, adjust the overall flavor to your preference.
  • Serve immediately or chill before serving.

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Fork
  • Large Bowl