As the sun-drenched days of summer fade and the fall harvest begins, I find myself craving vibrant dishes that celebrate the season’s bounty. That’s when I discovered my absolute favorite—Quinoa Salad with Feta and Roasted Vegetables. The medley of nutty quinoa paired with tangy feta and a colorful array of roasted veggies creates a beautifully satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Quick to prepare and brimming with flavors, this salad effortlessly showcases the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine. Cool evenings call for hearty meals, and I often whip up this salad not just as a filling main course but also as a delightful side for gatherings. The creamy feta cheese combined with the earthy sweetness of roasted butternut squash and bright red peppers will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re a busy professional or simply looking to jazz up your weeknight dinners, this recipe checks all the right boxes—wholesome, flavorful, and irresistibly appealing!

Why is this quinoa salad with feta so special?

Vibrant flavors: A delightful combination of nutty quinoa, creamy feta, and a rainbow of roasted veggies.

Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep; it comes together in no time.

Healthy and satisfying: Packed with nutrients and flavors, it’s ideal for anyone looking for a wholesome meal.

Versatile: Customize with your favorite seasonal vegetables or dressings for endless variations.

Crowd-pleaser: A stunning centerpiece for gatherings that everyone will enjoy! For more ideas, check out how to create other variations of this dish.

Quinoa Salad with Feta Ingredients

For the Salad
• Quinoa – Rinse before cooking to remove bitterness; use a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio for fluffy texture.
• Puck® Premium Cubed Feta Cheese – Offers a creamy and tangy flavor; substitute with vegan feta for a dairy-free option.
• Butternut Squash – Adds natural sweetness; can be swapped for sweet potatoes if needed.
• Red Pepper – Provides a juicy burst of flavor; green bell peppers are a suitable alternative.
• Red Onion – Contributes sweetness and sharpness; yellow or white onions work as substitutes.
• Zucchini – Offers moisture and a mild taste; use summer squash if zucchini isn’t available.

For the Dressing
• Olive Oil – Essential for roasting and dressing; avocado oil can be a flavorful alternative.
• Honey – Adds sweetness to the dressing; maple syrup is a great vegan substitute.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Provides depth; white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used instead.
• Mustard (dijon) – Brings tanginess to the dressing; any mustard variety can work, but spicy may alter its flavor.
• Ground Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy note; feel free to omit or switch with ground coriander for a different kick.

For Garnish
• Pumpkin Seeds – Adds crunch and nutrition; substitute with sunflower seeds or nuts for variety.

Enjoy this quinoa salad with feta as a deliciously healthy dish everyone will love!

How to Make Quinoa Salad with Feta

Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to a cozy 200°C (392°F). This will prepare it for roasting those delectable veggies!
Prepare Vegetables: On a lined baking tray, toss together the butternut squash, zucchini, red pepper, and red onion with olive oil, crushed garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly and bake for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, and remove the garlic after baking for a milder flavor.
Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mustard, honey, minced garlic, ground cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing is the magic that brings your salad to life!
Assemble Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted vegetables, fluffy cooked quinoa, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently mix to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Serve: Drizzle the zesty dressing over the salad and sprinkle with pumpkin seeds for added crunch right before serving. Enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors!

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for a refreshing touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Quinoa Salad with Feta Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this delicious salad to your taste preferences and dietary needs!

Vegan Option: Substitute feta with a vegan feta or creamy tahini for a dairy-free delight. You won’t miss the creaminess!
Different Grains: Swap quinoa for couscous, brown rice, or bulgur for a varied texture and flavor profile. Each grain brings its own personality!
Roasted Veggies: Try using eggplant, carrots, or Brussels sprouts instead of the suggested vegetables for seasonal twists. Their unique flavors will elevate your salad.
Herb Boost: Add fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, or parsley to enhance the flavor palate and add vibrancy. The fresh herbs make this dish sing!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the salad for an extra layer of heat. A little spice can wake up your taste buds!
Nutty Goodness: Toss in chopped walnuts, almonds, or pistachios for a delightful crunch and added protein. A satisfying crunch creates a whole new layer of enjoyment.
Dressing Variations: Experiment with citrus juices like lemon or pomegranate instead of vinegar for a bright and zesty dressing. Each citrus note will bring its own freshness!
Fruit Additions: Include chopped dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a sweet burst. The sweetness mingling with the savory flavors makes every bite lively.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing this quinoa salad with feta ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can roast the vegetables up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To keep the quinoa fluffy, cook it and let it cool completely before refrigerating, where it will stay fresh for up to 5 days. When ready to serve, simply combine the chilled quinoa, roasted vegetables, and feta in a large bowl. Drizzle with the dressing just before serving to maintain those vibrant flavors, ensuring your salad is just as delicious as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Quinoa Salad with Feta

Rinse Thoroughly: Always rinse quinoa before cooking to eliminate its natural bitterness. This step ensures a delightful and nutty flavor in your quinoa salad with feta.
Uniform Vegetable Cuts: Cut all vegetables into similar sizes to promote even roasting and avoid any burnt pieces. This helps achieve a perfect texture throughout the dish.
Monitor Roasting Time: Keep a close eye on your vegetables while they roast. Depending on size, you may need to adjust baking times to prevent overcooking or burning.
Vary Your Dressings: Feel free to experiment with different vinegars or sweeteners in your dressing. Personalizing flavors can elevate your quinoa salad with feta to your unique taste!
Storage Savvy: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. This dish can be enjoyed cold or reheated, making it perfect for meal prep!

How to Store and Freeze Quinoa Salad with Feta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The quinoa salad with feta can be enjoyed cold, making it great for meal prep!

Freezer: While fresh salads don’t freeze well, you can freeze the cooked quinoa separately for up to 2 months. Just thaw and toss with fresh veggies and dressing later.

Reheating: If you prefer your salad warm, gently reheat the quinoa in the microwave until warmed through, and add fresh feta and dressing afterward for optimal flavor.

Serving Tips: When ready to serve, add fresh herbs or extra veggies to give your quinoa salad a vibrant boost before enjoying!

What to Serve with Quinoa Salad with Feta and Roasted Vegetables?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this wholesome salad with complementary dishes that enhance its vibrant flavors.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and smoky, these skewers provide a satisfying protein that beautifully balances the fresh salad.
Hummus Platter: Creamy and flavorful, enjoy it with pita bread and crunchy veggies for a lovely appetizer that echoes Middle Eastern themes.
Roasted Garlic Bread: The buttery crunch complements the salad’s textures and brings a comforting touch to your meal.
Tabbouleh: The fresh herbs and lemony flavor in this traditional salad offer a refreshing contrast, making the meal more diverse and exciting.
Wine Pairing: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the tangy feta and roasted veggies, perfectly elevating your meal’s overall enjoyment.
Chickpea Patties: Crispy on the outside and tender within, these add a protein-rich, plant-based option that teams up wonderfully with the quinoa salad.
Fruit Salad: A light, sweet counterpoint; fresh fruits cut through the savory elements, adding a delightful finish to your dining experience.
Lemon Mint Tea: A refreshing beverage that echoes the bright flavors in the salad, creating a cohesive and invigorating meal experience.

Quinoa Salad with Feta and Roasted Vegetables Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best quinoa?
Absolutely! When choosing quinoa, look for grains that are shiny and free from small dark spots or debris. I recommend opting for organic quinoa if possible, as it often has a fresher taste. Rinse it in cold water before cooking; this helps remove the natural saponins that can impart a bitter flavor.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! To store your quinoa salad with feta, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. I often enjoy it cold as a refreshing snack or lunch, but you can also reheat it in the microwave if you prefer a warm dish.

Can I freeze the quinoa salad?
While the complete salad doesn’t freeze well due to the vegetables and feta, you can freeze the cooked quinoa itself. Transfer it to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible, and store it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and mix it with fresh vegetables and dressing.

What should I do if my roasted vegetables are burnt?
Oh no! If your vegetables burn, don’t worry; it can happen! To avoid this in the future, ensure your veggies are cut into uniform sizes, so they roast evenly. Keep an eye on them as they bake and stir halfway through. If they do burn, scrape off the charred bits and mix the salvaged veggies with your salad—they’ll still bring great flavor!

Is this recipe suitable for special dietary needs?
Absolutely! This quinoa salad with feta is gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by substituting the feta cheese with a vegan variety. Always double-check the labels of your ingredients, especially the dressing components, to ensure they meet your dietary preferences. Feel free to swap out any other ingredients to cater to allergies as well!

How can I add more flavor to the dressing?
Very easy! To elevate your dressing, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a burst of flavor. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness. Experimenting with different vinegars or mustards in the dressing can lead to delightful variations that suit your taste!