
Quinoa Salad
A refreshing and nutritious quinoa salad with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing.
15 mins
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
4
Servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Nutrition Facts
Instructions
Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
Prepare the vegetables: While the quinoa is cooking, dice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Finely chop the red onion, parsley, and mint.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled quinoa with the diced vegetables, chopped herbs, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Add the dressing: Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled.
Chef's Tips
- Quinoa Tip: Rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitter saponins.
- Vegetable Variations: Add avocado, olives, or roasted chickpeas for extra texture and flavor.
- Protein Boost: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a complete meal.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
- Dressing Tip: Adjust the lemon juice and olive oil ratio to suit your taste preferences.