Description

Quinoa salad is a bright, nutritious dish that features fluffy quinoa mixed with crunchy vegetables and a zesty dressing. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this refreshing salad delivers vibrant flavors and delightful textures in every bite. It can be enjoyed as a hearty main course or a colorful side dish, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup quinoa (white or tri-color)
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Rinse the quinoa under cold water until it runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
Chop cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, and parsley into bite-sized pieces.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, mix cooled quinoa with chopped vegetables and parsley. Drizzle with dressing and toss to combine.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course/Side Dish
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 220
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 30mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: - Customize your salad by adding nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch. - Substitute herbs based on your preference; cilantro adds a unique flavor. - For added protein, consider incorporating chickpeas or grilled chicken.