Looking for a refreshing and nutritious side dish? This herbed lemon quinoa salad is the perfect addition to any meal. Packed with protein and bursting with flavors, it’s a dish that will keep your taste buds satisfied and your guests impressed.
Imagine fluffy quinoa mixed with fresh herbs, zesty lemon juice, and a variety of colorful vegetables. This salad not only looks vibrant but also offers a delightful combination of textures, from the crunch of cucumbers to the creaminess of avocado.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a quiet night at home, this quinoa salad is versatile enough to complement any main course, making it a must-try side dish.
A Flavorful Quinoa Side Dish
This herbed lemon quinoa salad is a delightful addition to any meal. The fluffy quinoa serves as a perfect base, allowing the vibrant cherry tomatoes and crunchy cucumber to shine. The creaminess of the avocado adds a rich texture that balances the freshness of the other ingredients.
Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, and mint elevate the dish, providing aromatic notes that enhance each bite. The combination of flavors and textures makes this salad a standout side dish that complements a variety of main courses.
Fresh Ingredients for a Refreshing Salad
Utilizing high-quality, fresh ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor profile in this salad. Cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness and color, while diced cucumber brings a refreshing crunch. Creamy avocado not only contributes to the texture but also adds healthy fats.
Herbs play a significant role in this recipe. Fresh parsley, cilantro, and mint infuse the salad with brightness, making every mouthful a refreshing experience. The zesty lemon dressing ties everything together, creating a light and satisfying dish.
Quick and Easy Preparation
Preparing this herbed lemon quinoa salad is a straightforward process. Begin by cooking the quinoa, which can be done in just 15 minutes. Rinsing the quinoa before cooking helps remove its natural bitterness, resulting in a fluffier texture.
While the quinoa cooks, you can chop the vegetables and herbs, making it a quick assembly once everything is ready. The salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, allowing for flexibility based on your preference or occasion.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This salad shines as a side dish for summer barbecues, dinner parties, or even as a light lunch. Its colorful presentation makes it visually appealing on the table, enticing guests before they even take their first bite.
Whether you’re looking for something to accompany grilled chicken or a vegetarian main, this quinoa salad adapts beautifully, making it a versatile choice for various meals.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
If you have leftovers, storing the salad is simple. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the overall taste as it sits.
For serving, consider garnishing with extra fresh herbs and a drizzle of lemon dressing for an extra pop of flavor. This salad can also be a fantastic base for adding proteins like chickpeas or grilled shrimp, turning it into a heartier meal.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
This herbed lemon quinoa salad not only delights the palate but also offers nutritional benefits. Quinoa is a complete protein, making it an excellent choice for those seeking plant-based options.
With a balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, this salad provides a wholesome addition to your diet, ensuring you feel satisfied without being overly full.
A Flavorful Quinoa Side Dish
This herbed lemon quinoa salad features fluffy quinoa tossed with fresh parsley, cilantro, and mint, vibrant cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, and creamy avocado. The bright lemon dressing adds a refreshing zing, making it a light yet satisfying side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled quinoa with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, parsley, cilantro, and mint. Drizzle with the lemon dressing and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g