Quinoa Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quinoa Salad is a refreshing, wholesome dish packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant vegetables. It’s naturally gluten-free, easy to prepare, and perfect as a side dish or light main course. With its zesty dressing and hearty texture, this salad is ideal for meal prep, picnics, or a nutritious lunch on the go.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

quinoa (rinsed)watercherry tomatoescucumbersred bell pepperred onionfresh parsleyfresh mintfeta cheese (optional)olive oillemon juicegarlicsalt and black pepper

directions

Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness.

In a medium pot, bring water to a boil, add the quinoa, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Let it cool.

Dice the cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell pepper, and red onion. Finely chop the parsley and mint.

In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with all the chopped vegetables and herbs.

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss until well coated.

If using, crumble feta cheese on top and gently mix.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesCooling and chilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 60 minutes

Variations

Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra protein.

Mix in diced avocado just before serving for creaminess.

Use lime juice and cilantro for a Latin-inspired twist.

Include roasted sweet potato or beets for a heartier version.

Substitute feta with goat cheese or omit for a vegan option.

storage/reheating

Store Quinoa Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Do not freeze as the texture of vegetables and herbs may become mushy.

Serve cold or at room temperature.No reheating necessary.

FAQs

Is quinoa salad served hot or cold?

It is typically served cold or at room temperature.

Can I make quinoa salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep and actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours.

What type of quinoa is best for salad?

White quinoa is commonly used for its mild flavor, but red or tri-color quinoa works too for added texture.

Is quinoa salad healthy?

Yes, it’s rich in plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

Do I need to rinse quinoa?

Yes, rinsing removes the natural coating called saponin, which can taste bitter.

Can I omit the cheese?

Absolutely, the salad is still flavorful without it and becomes vegan-friendly.

How do I keep it from getting soggy?

Add dressing just before serving if you’re storing it for later, and keep vegetables dry before mixing.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, toasted almonds, pine nuts, or sunflower seeds add great crunch.

Conclusion

Quinoa Salad is a versatile and nutritious dish bursting with color, flavor, and texture. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side for your dinner, or something to bring to a gathering, this salad checks all the boxes. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, it’s sure to become a staple in your healthy recipe rotation.

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