Looking for a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and delicious? This quinoa salad is the perfect solution! Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving guests, this recipe is versatile and can be customized to your liking.
This quinoa salad combines fluffy quinoa with vibrant vegetables and a zesty dressing, making it a refreshing option for lunch or dinner. The best part? It’s quick to prepare, so you can enjoy a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
Quinoa serves as a nutritious base for this salad, providing essential protein and fiber. This ancient grain is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for various dietary preferences.
The addition of crisp cucumbers and juicy cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch and vibrant color, enhancing both the visual appeal and nutritional value.
Fresh parsley introduces a burst of flavor, while the optional feta cheese crumbles bring in a creamy element that complements the zesty lemon dressing beautifully.
Preparation Steps for Success
Begin by rinsing the quinoa to remove any bitterness that may be present. Cooking it in water or vegetable broth infuses extra flavor, while the fluffy texture keeps each bite enjoyable.
While the quinoa cools, take the time to chop the vegetables. This not only saves time but also helps to incorporate a variety of textures and tastes into the salad.
The dressing is a simple yet effective blend of olive oil and lemon juice, seasoned with salt and pepper. Whisking these ingredients together ensures a well-integrated flavor profile that enhances the entire dish.
A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion
This quinoa salad shines as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner. It’s versatile enough to be served at gatherings, potlucks, or as a meal prep option for the week.
Feel free to customize it by adding other vegetables or proteins according to personal preference. Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even roasted vegetables can elevate the dish even further.
Serving Suggestions
For an inviting presentation, serve the salad in a white bowl which showcases the vibrant colors of the ingredients. The rustic wooden table background complements the fresh aspect of the dish, making it visually appealing.
If you prefer a bit of creaminess, sprinkle some feta cheese on top right before serving. This adds not only flavor but also a delightful texture contrast to the crunchy vegetables.
Nutritional Benefits at a Glance
This salad isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. With approximately 220 calories per serving, it provides a satisfying meal without weighing you down.
The combination of quinoa and vegetables ensures a healthy intake of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Final Touches for Enjoyment
Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Whether enjoyed alone or as a complement to a main dish, it’s sure to delight anyone who tries it.
Keep it simple or add your favorite ingredients—this quinoa salad is bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire!
A Flavorful and Healthy Quinoa Salad
This quinoa salad is a light yet filling dish, featuring nutty quinoa, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy lemon dressing. It’s refreshing, crunchy, and satisfying, making it a fantastic addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: feta cheese or avocado for topping
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: In a medium pot, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add quinoa, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa cools, chop the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: In a large bowl, mix the cooled quinoa with the chopped vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well combined.
- Serve: Top with feta cheese or avocado if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g