There’s something deeply satisfying about creating a vibrant dish that not only celebrates fresh ingredients but also plays host to a symphony of flavors. Picture this: the nutty crunch of quinoa mingling with the sweet crispness of carrots, all while swathed in a luscious herby hummus that sings with the brightness of lemon and fragrant herbs. This Carrot, Feta & Quinoa Salad with Mint Basil Hummus is an effortless way to turn mealtime into a joyful experience—perfect for weekday lunches or gatherings with friends. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this colorful, gluten-free delight that not only pleases the palate but also adds a refreshing flair to any table. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a delicious homemade meal, this recipe promises to be a fulfilling and nutritious choice. Let’s dive in and make something truly special together!
Why is Carrot Feta & Quinoa Salad a Must-Try?
Vibrant Colors: The bright orange of carrots stands out against the creamy hummus and the earthy tones of quinoa, making this dish a feast for the eyes.
Flavor Harmony: The sweet crunch of carrots pairs beautifully with the salty feta and the herby hummus, creating a taste sensation that you’ll love.
Quick Prep: In just 30 minutes, you can serve this dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Nutritious Delight: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, this salad is not just delicious but also incredibly healthy.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or as part of a mezze platter, this recipe fits seamlessly into any meal.
Crowd-Pleasing: Even picky eaters will be drawn in by the vibrant flavors and textures—perfect for impressing family and friends!
Carrot Feta & Quinoa Salad Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delightful fusion of flavors!
For the Salad
- Quinoa – A gluten-free protein source that adds a nutty flavor and texture to the salad.
- Carrots – Provides a sweet crunch; grate or chop them for the perfect bite.
- Feta Cheese – Gives a salty kick that beautifully complements the other ingredients; use crumbled or cubed.
- Fresh Herbs (Mint, Basil) – Enhance the dish with aromatic freshness; feel free to mix or substitute based on your taste.
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and a smooth texture; extra virgin is highly recommended for its superior flavor.
- Lemon Juice – Brings brightness to the salad and helps balance flavors; freshly squeezed is ideal.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for the perfect finish.
For the Mint Basil Hummus
- Chickpeas – The creamy base of the hummus; canned varieties speed up prep time.
- Tahini – Adds a nutty richness; if needed, sunflower seed butter can work as a nut-free substitute.
- Garlic – Introduces depth and flavor; start with one clove and adjust according to your preference.
- Olive Oil – For a silky texture; incorporating a good quality oil brings out the best taste.
- Mint & Basil – Essential for brightening the hummus; a blend of these herbs will create a delightful flavor profile.
- Lemon Juice – Like in the salad, it brightens and balances the hummus; fresh juice adds the best zing.
- Salt – Important for enhancing flavor; taste and adjust as needed for perfect seasoning.
This vibrant Carrot Feta & Quinoa Salad paired with the fresh mint basil hummus not only looks stunning but also satisfies with every bite! Enjoy this wholesome dish that will surely impress your family and friends.
How to Make Carrot Feta & Quinoa Salad
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Cook Quinoa: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water, then combine it with 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed.
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Prepare Carrots: While the quinoa cooks, peel and grate or chop 2 large carrots. Their sweet crunch will add delightful texture to your salad.
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Mix Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, grated carrots, 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese, and a handful of fresh chopped herbs (like mint and basil).
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Drizzle Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil and the juice of 1 lemon. Pour this dressing over the salad mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
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Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, paying attention to the saltiness of the feta. Give the salad one final toss to ensure all flavors meld together.
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Prepare Hummus: In a food processor, combine 1 can of drained chickpeas, ¼ cup tahini, 1 clove of garlic, juice of 1 lemon, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting with water if needed. Season with salt.
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Serve: Arrange the carrot feta quinoa salad on a serving platter alongside a generous bowl of mint basil hummus, inviting everyone to dive in.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs for an extra pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Carrot Feta & Quinoa Salad
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Rinse Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa before cooking to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can make it taste bitter.
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Quality Feta: Choose a good quality feta cheese; it makes a noticeable difference in flavor and creaminess in your salad.
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Adjust Herbs: Feel free to mix and match herbs based on your preferences; fresh dill or parsley can add wonderful flavors to the carrot feta & quinoa salad.
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Taste as You Go: Always taste your salad before serving, especially after adding salt. This ensures it’s perfectly seasoned for everyone’s taste.
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Make Ahead: If you’re prepping in advance, store the salad and hummus separately to keep the textures fresh until serving.
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Serve Generously: Don’t be shy with the mint basil hummus; it’s the perfect complement to your vibrant salad!
What to Serve with Carrot Feta & Quinoa Salad?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement this vibrant and refreshing salad!
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Fresh Pita Bread: Soft and warm pita serves as a perfect vessel for the creamy mint basil hummus, enhancing each dip while adding a fluffy texture.
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Grilled Vegetable Platter: Charred and smoky veggies bring an earthy component that contrasts beautifully with the sweet crunch of carrots and the salty feta, creating a harmonious plate.
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Crispy Falafel: The spiced crunch of falafel bites adds a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, perfect for pairing with the herby hummus for a double-dip experience.
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Mediterranean Olives: A small bowl of marinated olives offers a briny punch that balances the sweet and nutty elements in your salad, creating an impeccable flavor harmony.
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Chilled White Wine: A refreshing glass of Sauvignon Blanc brings crisp acidity that cuts through the richness of the hummus while amplifying the salad’s bright notes.
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Roasted Red Pepper Soup: This warm, comforting dish pairs incredibly well, its velvety texture complementing the crunchy quinoa salad and lightening the meal with a comforting touch.
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Greek Yogurt with Lemon Zest: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with lemon brings a tangy contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile of the salad while keeping a refreshing balance.
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Fruit Salad: A light, seasonal fruit salad made with berries, citrus, and melon adds a sweet finish to your meal, merging beautifully with the herby notes of the hummus.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Carrot Feta & Quinoa Salad with Mint Basil Hummus are perfect for busy home cooks who want to enjoy a nutritious meal without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the quinoa and shred the carrots up to 3 days in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The mint basil hummus can also be made up to 2 days ahead—just keep it sealed tightly to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, combine the quinoa, carrots, and feta, drizzle with the dressing, and garnish with fresh herbs, then pair it with the hummus for a vibrant, satisfying meal that tastes just as fresh as when made that day!
Storage Tips for Carrot Feta & Quinoa Salad
Room Temperature: Enjoy the salad fresh if served immediately, but if it’s been out for more than 2 hours, it’s best to refrigerate any leftovers.
Fridge: Store leftover carrot feta quinoa salad in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Keeping it separate from the hummus will maintain its texture.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze the quinoa salad, as the vegetables may lose their crunch. However, the mint basil hummus can be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge before serving!
Reheating: If you prefer your salad warm, gently warm it in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Serve it with freshly made mint basil hummus for a delightful combo!
Carrot Feta & Quinoa Salad Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs with these exciting swaps and additions!
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Grain Swap: Replace quinoa with farro for a chewier texture or brown rice for a heartier option. Each grain adds its own unique flavor profile!
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Herb Mix-In: Experiment with fresh dill or chives instead of mint and basil for a different aromatic twist. Both herbs will bring freshness but in their own delightful way.
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Vegetable Add-Ins: Toss in roasted bell peppers or cucumbers for an extra crunch and burst of flavor. These additions can bring more color and variety to your salad.
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Cheese Variants: Use goat cheese or ricotta in place of feta for a creamier bite. Each cheese has its own charm, giving the dish a unique character.
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Zesty Boost: Add a touch of cumin or chili flakes to the hummus for a warm, comforting depth that elevates the flavors beautifully. The heat can be adjusted based on your taste!
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts on top for added texture and an earthy taste. Nuts can enhance the overall experience with their crunch.
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Additional Sweetness: Drizzle a bit of honey or add diced dried apricots to the salad for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors. This twist will surprise and delight your palate.
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Different Veggies: Swap out carrots for zucchini ribbons or radishes for a refreshing twist. Each alternative brings its own flavor and crunch!
Let your creativity shine, and enjoy discovering new favorites with this delicious base!
Carrot Feta & Quinoa Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Carrot Feta & Quinoa Salad?
Absolutely! When selecting carrots, go for firm ones without any dark spots or blemishes, which indicate they may be past their prime. The fresher your carrots, the sweeter they’ll be! For feta, opt for a creamy texture, and if it’s in brine, all the better for flavor. As for herbs, look for vibrant green leaves that smell fragrant; wilted or yellowed herbs won’t bring the same burst of freshness.
How should I store leftover salad and hummus?
Very good question! Store any leftover carrot feta quinoa salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Keep it separate from the mint basil hummus to preserve the salad’s crunchy texture. The hummus can stay fresh for up to a week in the fridge or, for longer storage, freeze it. Just make sure to keep it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving!
Can I freeze the Carrot Feta & Quinoa Salad?
Not recommended! Freezing the salad isn’t ideal since the carrots and other veggies will lose their crunch. However, you can freeze the mint basil hummus for up to 2 months. Just remember to transfer it to a storage container before freezing and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to regain its creamy texture.
What can I do if my hummus is too thick?
If your mint basil hummus turns out thicker than desired, don’t worry! Start by adding 1 tablespoon of water at a time while blending until it reaches your preferred consistency. I often find that letting it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a richer taste!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! This Carrot Feta & Quinoa Salad is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. If you’re concerned about nut allergies, make sure to substitute tahini with sunflower seed butter in the hummus. Additionally, always check the feta cheese ingredients, as some brands might not be suitable for those with lactose sensitivity.
Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?
Yes, the more the merrier! If you’re looking for alternatives, quinoa can be replaced with bulgur or farro for a different texture. Feel free to swap feta with a dairy-free cheese to make it vegan, and use any fresh herbs you love—such as dill or parsley. Adjusting these ingredients lets you tailor the salad to your taste!
Carrot Feta & Quinoa Salad with Mint Basil Hummus Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water, then combine with 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
- While the quinoa cooks, peel and grate or chop 2 large carrots.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, grated carrots, 1 cup of crumbled feta, and a handful of fresh chopped herbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil and the juice of 1 lemon. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Add salt and pepper to taste and give the salad one final toss.
- In a food processor, combine 1 can of drained chickpeas, ¼ cup tahini, 1 clove of garlic, juice of 1 lemon, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Blend until smooth, adjusting with water if needed. Season with salt.
- Arrange the salad on a serving platter alongside a bowl of mint basil hummus.