Looking for a light and nutritious dish that’s bursting with flavor? This quinoa salad is your answer! Packed with vibrant vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, it’s perfect as a side or a main meal. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weekdays or a delightful picnic.
Imagine a bowl filled with fluffy quinoa, crunchy bell peppers, refreshing cucumber, and sweet cherry tomatoes, all tossed together with a zesty dressing. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes, making it a favorite among health enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
This quinoa salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you’ll find that this recipe is adaptable, allowing you to include your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand.
Vibrant Ingredients Galore
This quinoa salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate.
With a base of fluffy quinoa, it incorporates a bright medley of vegetables that not only add color but also a variety of textures and flavors.
Cherry tomatoes bring a subtle sweetness, while cucumbers lend a refreshing crunch, making every bite enjoyable.
The addition of bell peppers introduces a crispness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Fresh parsley adds a touch of herbal brightness, rounding out the flavor profile.
Together, these ingredients create a salad that is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients.
Easy Preparation Steps
Making this quinoa salad is a breeze, requiring minimal time and effort.
Start by cooking the quinoa, which only takes about 15 minutes.
While it simmers, chop your vegetables and prepare a simple dressing. This allows the quinoa to cool while you focus on the other components, making the process efficient.
Once the quinoa is ready, combine it with the chopped vegetables in a large bowl.
Drizzle the dressing over the mixture and give everything a gentle toss.
This method ensures that each ingredient is evenly coated, enhancing the overall flavor of the salad.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This salad shines as a versatile dish suitable for a range of occasions.
It can serve as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a refreshing option for picnics and barbecues.
The vibrant colors make it an inviting addition to any table setting.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, meal prepping for the week, or simply looking for a nutritious snack, this quinoa salad fits the bill perfectly.
It’s a healthy choice that does not compromise on taste or presentation.
Flavorful Dressing
A key aspect of this salad is the light olive oil dressing that brings all the ingredients together.
The dressing balances the fresh vegetables and quinoa, enhancing their natural flavors without overpowering them.
A splash of lemon juice adds a zesty brightness, making each bite a refreshing experience.
Feel free to adjust the dressing to suit your preferences.
Adding herbs or a sprinkle of spices can elevate the flavor even further, allowing you to customize it to your taste.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
This quinoa salad is not just vibrant and flavorful; it’s also packed with essential nutrients.
Quinoa is a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making this dish an excellent choice for those seeking nutritious meals.
The vegetables contribute vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, promoting overall health.
With approximately 220 calories per serving, it provides a satisfying option without heaviness.
This salad is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a meal that supports a balanced diet while being delicious.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
If you have leftovers, storing this quinoa salad is simple.
Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate; it can last for up to three days.
The flavors often deepen as it sits, making it a delightful option for meal prep.
Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and consider pairing it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
You can also serve it alongside pita bread and hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
Easy and Nutritious Quinoa Salad Recipe
This quinoa salad is a nutritious blend of fluffy quinoa, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing. It’s refreshing, colorful, and offers a great balance of flavors, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 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
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Add them to a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Once the quinoa has cooled, fluff it with a fork and add it to the mixing bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
