Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad I created is my favorite on a busy day and is almost a meal in itself.

This recipe is bursting with freshness, flavor, and color and reminds us that food is not only healthy but should be enjoyed.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad and Health Benefits

This nutritious Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is rich in essential nutrients and low in calories, thanks to quinoa, vegetables, and parsley. Feel free to dress up this version of quinoa salad with other healthy ingredients to suit your taste. Shredded red cabbage, avocado slices, or some roasted turkey breast are just a few ideas of how you can increase the protein content or crunchy flavor of this hearty quinoa salad.

Helps with weight loss,

My Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a must-try if you are dieting to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

First of all, quinoa is considered one of the most beneficial and most nutritious foods globally. It is naturally gluten-free and contains a lot of protein. When it comes to protein, this grain is a winner.

Thanks to its protein and fiber content, quinoa can help you feel fuller for longer. Quinoa can help you maintain a healthy weight because it contains a relatively high amount of protein, and protein makes you feel full.

One cup (185 grams) of cooked quinoa contains 8.1 grams of protein.

Keeps menopause-induced weight gain at bay,

It is common knowledge that menopause changes women’s bodies and brings some difficult, stubborn pounds to shed.

Since quinoa is a high-fiber food, it can help prevent menopausal weight gain.

As metabolism slows down, menopausal women do not need the same calories as they did in their younger years. It is the right time to make a change: Quality over quantity.

Menopausal women need to consume enough nutrients to prevent health problems like osteoporosis and heart disease. Quinoa can provide your body with all the nutrients you need during menopause. Plus, it can help control weight and even relieve some symptoms of menopause.

I include quinoa in my diet to provide my body with the necessary nutrients to get through menopause.

It helps your gut stay healthy,

Studies have shown that nearly 80 percent of our immune system is located in the gut. Taking care of your gut will impact your overall health and weight management.

Quinoa was assessed in a 2016 study for its function as a prebiotic. Prebiotics are “fuel” for the beneficial bacteria that live in your gut. Studies suggest that quinoa can improve gastrointestinal health by balancing the levels of good gut bacteria.

What do you need to make this Mediterranean quinoa salad?

• A few TBSP cooked white quinoa (I used four) )
• One chopped red or yellow onion
•  2 or 3 chopped tomatoes
• One chopped red bell pepper
• A few olives
• Fresh parsley; add as much as you like.
• 1 and 1/2 TBSP o apple cider vinegar
•  2 TBSP Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

I love parsley for its freshness and health benefits. To me, parsley is not just an herb used to garnish dishes but, more importantly, a great gift to our health.

This popular herb is rich in vitamins C, A, and K, has antibacterial properties and contains cancer-fighting essential oils.

I think this fantastic herb deserves its post on my blog in the future because of its impressive health benefits.

How to make this Mediterranean quinoa salad?

• Place the onions in a large bowl with a pinch of salt and apple cider vinegar and stir – The salt and apple cider vinegar take away the strong onion flavor.
• Add all the ingredients and toss—season to taste.
• Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes to allow all the flavors to combine.

I enjoyed the salad with some homemade fish spread on a whole-wheat toast. It’s just filling and delicious.

Tips:

• You can incorporate this Mediterranean quinoa salad into your hearty lunchbox.
• This nutritious quinoa salad is not only delicious but also versatile. Using my version as a starting point, you can create your healthy quinoa salad.

If you recreate this recipe, let me know by sharing your pictures on Instagram and tagging them with the hashtag #healthywomanstyle, or leave a comment below. Your feedback means a lot to me because it gives me the creative push to develop more exciting recipes or talk about important topics.

Until next time, let your hair down and make the most of your days.

I wish you all the best,

Gabby

Disclaimer:

The content of this blog should never be used as a substitute for medical advice from your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional.