Looking to brighten up your meal with a nutritious dish? This savory quinoa salad is packed with seasonal vegetables and offers a delightful crunch in every bite. Not only is it colorful, but it’s also a powerhouse of nutrients that will keep you energized throughout the day.
Quinoa is a fantastic base for salads, and when combined with fresh vegetables, it creates a wonderful balance of textures and flavors. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch, a side dish, or even a light dinner. Plus, it’s easily customizable based on what’s in your fridge!
Vibrant Ingredients for a Wholesome Salad
This quinoa salad shines with a mix of nutritious ingredients that elevate its taste and texture. The fluffy quinoa serves as a fantastic base, providing a nutty flavor while being rich in protein.
Colorful diced bell peppers add a sweet crunch, while the refreshing cucumbers lend a cool, crisp bite. Cherry tomatoes, halved for maximum juiciness, bring bursts of flavor that complement each ingredient beautifully. Fresh parsley or cilantro garnishes the dish, enhancing its appeal with a hint of herbal brightness.
Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette
The salad is brought to life with a zesty lemon vinaigrette that adds a refreshing tang. Made from olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice, this dressing balances the flavors of the vegetables and quinoa perfectly.
With a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, the vinaigrette ties everything together, ensuring each bite is both light and satisfying. The dressing also adds a glistening finish, making the salad visually inviting.
Preparation Simplicity
Preparing this salad is an effortless process, making it a go-to for busy individuals. Start by cooking the quinoa in vegetable broth or water; this step infuses it with flavor while ensuring it remains light and fluffy.
While the quinoa cooks, chop your selection of fresh vegetables. This multitasking approach means the salad can come together quickly, perfect for a last-minute lunch or dinner option.
Serving Suggestions
This quinoa salad is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Serve it as a light lunch, paired with grilled chicken or fish for a filling dinner option, or present it as a colorful side dish at gatherings.
Its vibrant appearance draws attention, making it a delightful addition to any table setting. Plus, it’s an ideal way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
Health Benefits Galore
Filled with wholesome ingredients, this salad is a powerhouse of nutrients. Quinoa stands out with its high protein content, making it an excellent choice for those seeking plant-based options.
The addition of fresh vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced meal. This dish is not only low in calories but also rich in fiber, helping to keep you full and energized throughout the day.
Creative Customizations
One of the best aspects of this quinoa salad is its adaptability. You can easily customize it based on what you have available. Swap out vegetables for seasonal varieties or add beans for extra protein.
Experiment with different herbs or spices in the vinaigrette to create a dressing that suits your taste. This flexibility ensures that the salad remains a favorite choice, regardless of dietary preferences or seasonal changes.
Crispy and Nutritious Quinoa Salad
This quinoa salad features fluffy quinoa tossed with vibrant vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, all coated in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. The result is a refreshing dish that is both filling and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooling, chop the bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and spinach (or kale).
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Everything: In a large bowl, add the cooled quinoa, diced vegetables, and the dressing. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and enjoy your refreshing quinoa salad!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 24g