64 Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Recipes You’ll Want on Repeat

Quinoa’s light, nutty flavor makes it the perfect canvas for bold Mediterranean ingredients—think briny olives, creamy cheeses, bright citrus, and plenty of fresh herbs. Below are sixty-five salads that travel from the shores of Greece to the markets of Morocco, all while staying weeknight-friendly. Cook a big batch of quinoa, keep a bottle of good olive oil nearby, and explore these vibrant bowls one forkful at a time.

1. Classic Greek Quinoa Salad

This recipe mirrors the flavors of a traditional horiatiki. Juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and briny olives mingle with fluffy quinoa for satisfying texture. A sprinkle of oregano and a splash of red-wine vinegar tie everything together. It’s the kind of salad that tastes even better after a quick chill in the fridge.

2. Mediterranean Chickpea Quinoa Salad

Canned chickpeas provide protein and an earthy bite that complements the grain. Roasted red and yellow peppers bring sweetness while parsley keeps things fresh. A simple dressing of lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic finishes the dish. Scoop leftovers into pita pockets for lunch.

3. Lemon Herb Quinoa Tabouli

Traditional tabouli relies on bulgur, but quinoa’s gluten-free nature gives everyone a chance to enjoy it. Loads of parsley and mint lend garden-fresh aroma. Extra-virgin olive oil and plenty of lemon juice create a bright, clean flavor. Serve alongside grilled kebabs or falafel.

4. Caprese Quinoa Salad

Think of this as an Italian picnic in a bowl. Sweet tomatoes burst against creamy bocconcini while basil perfumes every bite. A drizzle of thick balsamic glaze adds gentle tang and a hint of sweetness. It’s equally delicious warm or chilled.

5. Roasted Veggie Quinoa Salad

Slow-roasting vegetables concentrates their flavors and caramelizes edges. Toss those veggies with quinoa so their juices soak in. A garlic-lemon vinaigrette brings everything together. Add crumbled goat cheese for a creamy accent.

6. Sun-Dried Tomato & Olive Quinoa Salad

Sun-dried tomatoes lend chewy sweetness that balances salty olives. A bit of crushed red pepper adds gentle heat. Fresh oregano layers in Mediterranean perfume. Enjoy as a side to grilled fish or chicken.

7. Quinoa Fattoush Salad

Crunchy pita shards replace traditional croutons while quinoa supplies hearty substance. Sumac and lemon create the salad’s signature tang. Mint and parsley keep each bite lively. Serve immediately so the pita stays crisp.

8. Artichoke & Feta Quinoa Salad

Jarred artichoke hearts make this dish weeknight-ready. Their brine doubles as part of the dressing, cutting down prep time. Salty feta offers creamy contrast to the tender artichokes. A handful of dill brightens everything.

9. Cucumber, Mint & Quinoa Salad

If refreshment were a salad, this would be it. Cool cucumber cubes and fragrant mint turn quinoa into a summer side that cools you from the inside out. A hint of grated garlic perks up the light lemon dressing. Partner it with spicy kebabs for balance.

10. Grilled Halloumi Quinoa Salad

Grilled halloumi delivers squeaky texture and savory depth. Its salty edge seasons the mild grain without extra effort. Peppery arugula adds bite, while juicy tomatoes provide sweetness. Serve while the cheese is still warm for maximum appeal.

11. Spinach & Pine Nut Quinoa Salad

Toasting pine nuts releases aromatic oils that perfume the dish. Baby spinach wilts gently under the heat of freshly cooked quinoa. A splash of red-wine vinegar brightens the finish. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan if desired.

12. Roasted Red Pepper & Basil Quinoa Salad

Jarred roasted peppers bring smoky sweetness without turning on the oven. Basil adds fresh, almost floral notes that lift the grain. A dressing of olive oil, sherry vinegar, and minced garlic ties flavors together. Extra roasted peppers on top make a colorful garnish.

13. Pomegranate & Parsley Quinoa Salad

Jewel-like pomegranate arils burst with sweet-tart juice. Chopped flat-leaf parsley supplies herbaceous crunch. Toasted almonds lend nutty richness, giving each forkful layers of texture. It’s a festive option for holiday spreads.

14. Smoked Salmon & Dill Quinoa Salad

Smoked salmon infuses the salad with briny, wood-kissed flavor. Dill and capers echo classic Scandinavian pairings while fitting right into a Mediterranean palate. A lemony yogurt dressing adds creamy tang. Keep portions chilled for peak taste.

15. Harissa Roasted Carrot Quinoa Salad

Harissa lends gentle heat and complex spice to sweet roasted carrots. The carrots’ caramelized edges contrast with fluffy quinoa. A drizzle of honey-lemon dressing balances spice with brightness. Sprinkle chopped cilantro for a pop of green.

16. Eggplant & Tahini Quinoa Salad

Roasted eggplant cubes turn silky and slightly smoky in the oven. A nutty tahini-lemon sauce clings to every quinoa bead. Pomegranate molasses adds subtle sweetness. Serve at room temperature for the best flavor.

17. Kalamata Olive Vinaigrette Quinoa Salad

Puréed Kalamata olives transform into an irresistible dressing. Their natural salt eliminates the need for extra sodium. Chopped cucumber and tomato lighten the dish. It’s perfect for picnics because the flavors deepen as it sits.

18. Orange, Olive & Fennel Quinoa Salad

Sweet citrus, crunchy fennel, and briny olives create a vibrant contrast. Quinoa absorbs the juices from the orange, adding subtle sweetness. A fennel-seed vinaigrette underscores the anise note. Garnish with fennel fronds for flair.

19. Zucchini & Lemon Yogurt Quinoa Salad

Lightly sautéed zucchini ribbons fold gently into the grain. A tangy yogurt dressing flavored with lemon zest adds creaminess without heaviness. Fresh dill rounds out the sunny profile. It pairs well with baked fish.

20. Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Quinoa Salad

Earthy beets stain quinoa a gorgeous pink hue. Creamy goat cheese melts slightly, creating a silky coating. Toasted walnuts add crunch and a touch of bitterness. A balsamic splash brings the flavors together.

21. Cranberry & Pistachio Quinoa Salad

Tart dried cranberries brighten each bite. Pistachios offer a Mediterranean nod and vivid color. A citrusy orange vinaigrette keeps the salad lively. Serve alongside roast turkey or chicken.

22. Grilled Shrimp & Oregano Quinoa Salad

Quick-cooking shrimp add lean protein and coastal flair. Oregano infuses the dish with classic Greek aroma. A splash of white-wine vinegar accentuates the shrimp’s sweetness. Enjoy warm or chilled.

23. Chickpea Shawarma Quinoa Salad

Roasting chickpeas in cumin, coriander, and paprika gives them a crunchy exterior. Those spices seep into quinoa, echoing a street-side shawarma stand. A creamy tahini drizzle cools the heat. Lettuce cups turn it into handheld fare.

24. Avocado & Cherry Tomato Quinoa Salad

Velvety avocado coats quinoa, making every bite luscious. Cherry tomatoes pop with sweet acidity. Lime and cilantro brighten the mix, leaning slightly toward Baja flavors while staying Mediterranean at heart. It’s best enjoyed immediately to keep the avocado vibrant.

25. Spinach Pesto Quinoa Salad

A blender pesto of spinach, basil, and almonds brings fresh, garlicky punch. Mixing it into warm quinoa helps the flavors bloom. Parmesan shavings add mellow umami. Leftovers reheat well for lunch.

26. Roasted Cauliflower & Golden Raisin Quinoa Salad

Roasted cauliflower offers nutty depth and crisp edges. Sweet golden raisins provide chewy contrast. A cumin-spiked dressing hints at North African influence. Scatter with toasted sesame seeds for crunch.

27. Charred Corn & Tomato Quinoa Salad

Charring corn in a hot skillet caramelizes its sugars and adds smoke. Juicy tomatoes balance the corn’s sweetness. Fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil complete the dish. Serve at room temperature for best flavor.

28. Sautéed Anchovy & Arugula Quinoa Salad

Briefly sautéed anchovies melt into a savory sauce that coats the grain. Peppery arugula cuts through the richness. A squeeze of lemon brightens the palate. It’s a bold salad perfect for seafood lovers.

29. Grilled Chicken & Lemon Quinoa Salad

Simply seasoned chicken adds hearty protein. The meat’s smoky edges complement quinoa’s mild flavor. A quick lemon-garlic dressing ties everything together. Make extra for easy meal prep.

30. Fig & Walnut Quinoa Salad

Sweet figs lend jammy pockets of flavor. Toasted walnuts counter with crunch and earthiness. A honey-balsamic glaze echoes the fig’s natural sugars. This salad doubles as a delightful brunch option.

31. Herb Falafel Crumble Quinoa Salad

Store-bought or homemade falafel crumbles act like spiced croutons. Their chickpea base amplifies protein content. A tahini-lemon dressing keeps things moist and zesty. Add pickled turnips for extra brightness.

32. Turmeric Roasted Chickpea Quinoa Salad

Turmeric not only colors chickpeas but also imparts earthy warmth. Those chickpeas provide crunch that contrasts quinoa’s softness. Raisins dot the salad with sweetness. Finish with a squeeze of orange juice for depth.

33. Sweet Potato & Coriander Quinoa Salad

Roasted sweet potatoes bring caramel notes and vibrant orange color. Fresh coriander (cilantro) adds citrusy aroma. A cumin-lime vinaigrette bridges sweet and herbal flavors. It’s a filling vegetarian main course.

34. Olive Tapenade Dressing Quinoa Salad

A spoonful of olive tapenade whisked with olive oil doubles as a dressing. Capers and diced tomato echo the tapenade’s briny punch. Flat-leaf parsley keeps it bright. This quick dish travels well for potlucks.

35. Roasted Garlic & Tomato Quinoa Salad

Slow-roasted garlic mellows into sweet spreadable nuggets. Blistered tomatoes burst with concentrated flavor. A few torn basil leaves lift the profile. Serve slightly warm so the garlic’s aroma shines.

36. Spinach, Pear & Gorgonzola Quinoa Salad

Juicy pears offset gorgonzola’s sharp tang. Baby spinach wilts gently from the warm grain. Toasted walnuts echo the cheese’s richness. A light white-wine vinaigrette balances the flavors.

37. Lemon-Dill Yogurt & Cucumber Quinoa Salad

A yogurt base turns the salad luxuriously creamy yet refreshing. Dill and lemon zest add garden brightness. Crisp cucumbers add crunch and coolness. It’s an ideal picnic side on hot days.

38. Roasted Broccoli & Almond Quinoa Salad

High-heat roasting turns broccoli nutty and slightly smoky. Slivered almonds amplify that nuttiness with extra crunch. A squeeze of lemon keeps flavors lively. Serve as a side to grilled steak or tofu.

39. Peach & Burrata Quinoa Salad

Sweet, ripe peaches pair wonderfully with creamy burrata. The cheese’s milky center mingles with quinoa for a luscious bite. Fresh basil adds a fragrant lift. Finish with a tiny drizzle of balsamic reduction.

40. Spiced Lamb Crumble Quinoa Salad

Ground lamb seasoned with cumin and cinnamon evokes Eastern Mediterranean flavors. Its rich juices seep into quinoa. Pomegranate seeds cut through with fruity brightness. A dollop of plain yogurt cools things down.

41. Roasted Pumpkin & Sage Quinoa Salad

Roasted pumpkin brings a sweet, velvety element. Crispy sage leaves add aromatic crunch. A nutmeg-kissed vinaigrette nods to cooler weather. It’s a comforting yet light dish for fall gatherings.

42. Roasted Onion & Thyme Quinoa Salad

Caramelized onions lend deep sweetness matched by herbal thyme. Their glossy juices flavor every quinoa kernel. A splash of sherry vinegar balances richness. Pair with roasted chicken for an easy dinner.

43. Garlic Mushroom & Rosemary Quinoa Salad

Garlic-laden mushrooms bring umami depth. Rosemary perfumes the entire dish with piney notes. Quinoa soaks up the mushroom juices like a sponge. Serve warm for maximum savoriness.

44. Watermelon & Feta Quinoa Salad

The classic Greek pairing of watermelon and feta gains bulk from quinoa. Salty-sweet interplay keeps palates intrigued. Mint amplifies the refreshing vibe. Chill the salad thoroughly before serving.

45. Charred Leek & Goat Cheese Quinoa Salad

Charring leeks unlocks smoky sweetness. Their silky texture contrasts with crumbly goat cheese. A lemon-thyme vinaigrette cuts through richness. Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs for crunch.

46. Grilled Zucchini & Mint Pesto Quinoa Salad

Grill-marked zucchini adds visual appeal and faint smoke. Mint pesto offers a cool flavor twist from classic basil versions. Quinoa carries the sauce beautifully. Enjoy alongside lamb chops or veggie skewers.

47. Citrus-Marinated Tofu Quinoa Salad

Marinating tofu in orange and lime juice infuses bright notes. A quick sear locks in flavor and creates crisp edges. Cilantro and scallions keep the salad lively. It’s a satisfying vegan entrée.

48. Caramelized Shallot & Olive Quinoa Salad

Slow-cooked shallots transform into sweet, almost jammy morsels. Briny olives offset that sweetness. A red-wine reduction dressing adds a gourmet touch. Serve warm for the fullest flavor profile.

49. Roasted Artichoke & Lemon Quinoa Salad

Roasting fresh artichokes intensifies their nutty flavor. Lemon zest and juice underscore their brightness. Flat-leaf parsley adds color and freshness. This salad works as both side and light main.

50. Spicy Roasted Chickpea & Spinach Quinoa Salad

Spiced chickpeas deliver crunch plus gentle heat. Warm quinoa gently wilts the spinach so it clings to each bite. A quick squeeze of lemon balances the spices. Pack it for desk lunches—it tastes great at room temperature.

51. Herb-Grilled Turkey & Cranberry Quinoa Salad

Leftover grilled turkey finds new life in this salad. Dried cranberries mirror classic holiday flavors while fitting Mediterranean colors. A rosemary-orange dressing ties everything together. It’s ideal for post-holiday meal prep.

52. Tomato Confit & Basil Quinoa Salad

Low-and-slow tomato confit bursts with concentrated sweetness. Its olive-oil base doubles as dressing. Fresh basil cuts through the richness. Enjoy warm so the confit oil stays liquid.

53. Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Pomegranate Quinoa Salad

Brussels sprouts caramelize beautifully at high heat. Tart pomegranate seeds brighten their earthy flavor. Toasted hazelnuts add extra crunch. A maple-mustard vinaigrette brings subtle sweetness.

54. Avocado, Grapefruit & Pistachio Quinoa Salad

Grapefruit offers refreshing bitterness that highlights creamy avocado. Pistachios bring Mediterranean character and crunchy texture. A honey-lime dressing balances sweet, sour, and nutty notes. Serve chilled for a cooling entree.

55. Garlic Mushroom & Parsley Quinoa Salad

Garlic-infused mushrooms pair effortlessly with parsley’s clean flavor. Quinoa absorbs the savory pan juices. A splash of white balsamic adds gentle sweetness. Serve warm for an autumn supper.

56. Roasted Pepper, Olive & Caper Quinoa Salad

Roasted peppers offer smoky sweetness that contrasts briny olives and capers. A touch of anchovy paste in the dressing deepens umami. Flat-leaf parsley adds freshness. It’s a vibrant dish for tapas-style dinners.

57. Kale & Tahini-Lemon Quinoa Salad

Massaging kale softens its texture so it mingles easily with quinoa. A creamy tahini-lemon sauce adds richness without dairy. Sesame seeds echo the tahini’s nutty vibe. It holds up well for make-ahead meals.

58. Pumpkin Seed & Cranberry Quinoa Salad

Pumpkin seeds bring crunch and subtle earthiness. Dried cranberries supply sweet-tart balance. A cinnamon-spiced vinaigrette whispers of Moroccan markets. This salad doubles as a festive holiday side.

59. Roasted Asparagus & Parmesan Quinoa Salad

Roasted asparagus offers grassy sweetness and tender bite. Nutty Parmesan melts just slightly over warm quinoa. A lemon-pepper dressing ties everything together. It’s ideal for spring menus.

60. Sautéed Swiss Chard & Pine Nut Quinoa Salad

Sautéing chard stems first ensures even tenderness. Their subtle bitterness contrasts quinoa’s nuttiness. Pine nuts add buttery crunch. Finish with a dash of red-pepper flakes for gentle heat.

61. Mediterranean Meatball & Tzatziki Quinoa Salad

Mini meatballs seasoned with cumin, oregano, and garlic make this salad a full meal. Cool tzatziki adds creamy tang and cucumber freshness. The juices from the meat flavor the quinoa underneath. Serve warm for maximum satisfaction.

62. Toasted Almond & Apricot Quinoa Salad

Dried apricots lend chewy sweetness that complements toasty almonds. A splash of orange blossom water in the dressing hints at North African desserts. Fresh mint keeps flavors balanced. It pairs well with spiced chicken thighs.

63. Roasted Tomato & Pesto Mozzarella Quinoa Salad

Slow-roasting tomatoes deepens their natural sugars. Pesto-tossed mozzarella pearls melt slightly against warm quinoa. A few torn basil leaves heighten aroma. Serve at room temperature for a picnic-ready dish.

64. Sun-Dried Tomato Vinaigrette & Arugula Quinoa Salad

Blending sun-dried tomatoes into the vinaigrette delivers concentrated flavor in every bite. Peppery arugula keeps things lively. Shaved Pecorino brings salty complexity. This salad is quick enough for busy weeknights yet elegant for entertaining.