Description
This Favorite Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the wholesome goodness of quinoa, protein-packed chickpeas, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick and healthy lunch option, this salad is both delicious and satisfying. The zesty dressing made with lemon juice and olive oil enhances the freshness of the ingredients, making every bite a delight. Not only is it vegan and gluten-free, but it also keeps well in the fridge, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Enjoy it as a main dish or a refreshing side salad!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 medium cucumber, seeded and chopped
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- ¾ cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red apple vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine the rinsed quinoa and water in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Decrease the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered until the quinoa has absorbed all the water (about 15 minutes).
- Remove from heat, cover, and let rest for 5 minutes to fluff up.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and parsley. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, and salt. Whisk until blended well; set aside.
- Once the quinoa has cooled slightly, add it to the serving bowl with vegetables. Drizzle with dressing on top.
- Toss everything together until well combined. Season with black pepper to taste; add an extra pinch of salt if needed.
- For best flavor, let the salad rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish/Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg