why make this recipe
Quinoa salad is a light and healthy dish that is packed with nutrients. It’s easy to make and perfect for lunch or dinner. The combination of fresh vegetables and quinoa is not only delicious but also filling. It is great for meal prep, as you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Plus, it’s super versatile—you can easily change the ingredients to suit your taste!
how to make Quinoa Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
- In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the quinoa and reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer until the water is absorbed, about 15 minutes.
- Once the quinoa is cooked, let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the quinoa, cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour this dressing over the salad and toss everything together.
You can serve the quinoa salad as a main dish or as a side. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. For added flavor, top with some feta cheese or avocado.
how to serve Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad is best served cold or at room temperature. You can enjoy it alone or alongside grilled meats. This salad makes an excellent side dish for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings.
how to store Quinoa Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you plan to add avocado or other fresh toppings, it’s best to add them just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
tips to make Quinoa Salad
- Rinse your quinoa: This removes the bitter coating called saponin, which can give quinoa an unpleasant taste.
- Flavor your water: You can add vegetable broth instead of water for extra flavor.
- Chill before serving: Let the salad sit in the fridge for an hour to let the flavors meld together.
variation
Feel free to change up the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Adding black beans, corn, or even fruits like mango can give the salad a unique twist.
FAQs
Can I make quinoa salad in advance?
Yes, quinoa salad can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator, and it will taste even better the next day.
Is quinoa salad gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this salad a great option for those with gluten intolerance.
Can I freeze quinoa salad?
While you can freeze cooked quinoa, freezing the salad isn’t recommended as the vegetables can become mushy. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Quinoa Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
- In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the quinoa and reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer until the water is absorbed, about 15 minutes.
- Once the quinoa is cooked, let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together.
