If you’re looking for delicious and nutritious options for your 21 Day Fix meal plan, this quinoa salad is a fantastic choice. Packed with colorful veggies and protein-rich quinoa, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also incredibly satisfying and can be customized to suit your taste.
This quinoa salad is a powerhouse of flavors and textures. Imagine fluffy quinoa mixed with crunchy bell peppers, refreshing cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese, all brought together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s not just healthy; it’s also a vibrant addition to any meal prep!
Vibrant Ingredients for a Wholesome Salad
This quinoa salad showcases an array of colorful ingredients that enhance both its appearance and nutritional value. Fluffy quinoa serves as the foundation, providing a protein-rich base that’s both filling and satisfying.
Cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst, while crisp cucumbers bring a refreshing crunch. The diced bell peppers contribute a satisfying texture and a pop of color. The combination of these fresh vegetables creates a delightful visual appeal that is hard to resist.
Cheesy Goodness and Herbal Freshness
To elevate the flavor profile, crumbled feta cheese introduces a creamy and tangy element that pairs beautifully with the fresh veggies. This cheese not only enhances taste but also adds a rich texture that complements the salad.
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top brings a herbaceous note and a vibrant green color, making the dish even more inviting. Together, these ingredients create a balanced and enjoyable mix that can be appreciated by anyone looking for a nourishing meal.
Easy Preparation for Busy Lives
Preparing this salad is straightforward, making it a fantastic option for those with busy schedules. The quinoa can be cooked quickly, taking about 15 minutes, while the vegetables can be chopped in the same time frame.
With minimal effort, this dish can be ready to serve in just 30 minutes. This ease of preparation allows for a wholesome meal without the need to spend hours in the kitchen.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This quinoa salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. It can be served as a side dish at a gathering or as a light main course for lunch or dinner.
P air it with grilled chicken, fish, or a glass of your favorite white wine for a refreshing summer meal. The addition of a lemon wedge and a drizzle of olive oil right before serving adds a bright finish that enhances the taste.
Storing for Later Enjoyment
One of the great advantages of this quinoa salad is its ability to be stored. It can be made in advance and kept in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen over time.
For those who meal prep, this dish fits perfectly into your weekly routine, providing a healthy and delicious option ready to grab and go.
A Nutritious Addition to Your Diet
This colorful quinoa salad is not just visually appealing; it also packs a nutritional punch. With high protein content from quinoa and a variety of vitamins from the fresh vegetables, it stands out as a healthy choice for any meal plan.
At just 220 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free option that can contribute to maintaining a balanced diet while still satisfying your taste buds. This salad is a delightful way to incorporate more wholesome ingredients into your meals.
Delicious Quinoa Salad for Your Meal Prep
This quinoa salad is light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. The combination of quinoa with fresh vegetables and a citrus dressing creates a delightful dish that is as nutritious as it is tasty.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water (or broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Let it cool.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Everything: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chopped vegetables, and feta cheese. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to combine. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 30g