Mediterranean-Inspired Cholesterol-Lowering Feast
A delicious and heart-healthy meal designed to support a diet aimed at lowering high cholesterol, featuring Mediterranean-inspired ingredients rich in soluble fiber, plant-based proteins, and healthy fats.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 grilled or roasted chicken breasts (optional)
Instructions
Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad and toss to combine.
Serve the salad on plates, top with grilled or roasted chicken breasts if desired, and enjoy!
Estimated Nutrition
Per serving
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein (g) | 20 |
| Carbs (g) | 30 |
| Fiber (g) | 8 |
| Sugar (g) | 5 |
| Saturated fat (g) | 2 |
| Trans fat (g) | 0 |
| Sodium (mg) | 400 |
| Cholesterol | 0 |