Watercress and Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Garlic Dressing

This watercress and quinoa salad is a light and refreshing dish that's perfect for a summer meal. The quinoa provides a hearty base, while the watercress, red onion, and sun-dried tomatoes add a bit of crunch and sweetness. The feta cheese and parsley add a touch of richness and brightness, while the lemon-garlic dressing ties everything together. This salad is easy to make and can be served as a side dish or a main course.

I first came up with this recipe when I was looking for a way to use up some leftover quinoa. I had some watercress in the fridge, and I thought it would be a good addition to the salad. I also added some red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley. The salad was a hit with my family and friends, and I've been making it ever since. This salad is a great way to use up leftover quinoa, and it's also a healthy and delicious meal.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup watercress, chopped
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Cook the quinoa according to package directions.
2. While the quinoa is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the watercress and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, parsley, and garlic.
6. Cook until the feta cheese is melted and bubbly, about 1 minute.
7. Stir in the cooked quinoa.
8. Serve immediately.

Why It Works

• The combination of quinoa, watercress, red onion, and sun-dried tomatoes provides a variety of textures and flavors.
• The feta cheese adds a touch of richness and creaminess.
• The parsley adds a touch of brightness and freshness.
• The lemon-garlic dressing is a light and flavorful dressing that ties everything together.