When it comes to a meal that’s wholesome, delicious, and easy to make, Quinoa Salad checks all the boxes. Light but satisfying, it’s packed with fresh veggies, nutty quinoa, and a zesty dressing that brings it all together. Perfect for meal prep, lunch on the go, or a fresh side dish, this quinoa salad recipe is as versatile as it is tasty. Let’s dig into this bowl of goodness!
Ingredients List: All You Need for the Perfect Quinoa Salad
For a salad that’s full of flavor, you’ll need a mix of colorful veggies, fresh herbs, and a delicious dressing. Here’s the essential list to get started!
The Main Ingredients: Building Blocks of a Fresh and Nutritious Salad
- 1 cup quinoa – The star of the salad; nutty, fluffy, and packed with protein.
- 2 cups water – To cook the quinoa.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Adds a juicy burst of flavor.
- 1 cucumber, diced – For a cool, refreshing crunch.
- 1 bell pepper, diced – Adds sweetness and color; use red, yellow, or orange.
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced – For a bit of sharpness and bite.
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled – Adds creaminess and a touch of saltiness.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped – For a burst of green and freshness.
- ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped – Adds a refreshing, bright flavor.
For the Dressing: Zesty and Tangy Goodness
- 3 tbsp olive oil – Rich and smooth, perfect for salad dressing.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice – Adds a tangy brightness.
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar – For depth and a slight kick.
- 1 clove garlic, minced – A hint of garlic makes all the difference.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Adjust to your preference.
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ avocado, diced – For a creamy addition.
- ¼ cup nuts or seeds (e.g., almonds, pumpkin seeds) – Adds crunch and extra nutrition.
- A handful of arugula or baby spinach – For added greens.
Equipment Needed: Tools to Make the Best Quinoa Salad
You won’t need much to create this salad masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Medium pot with lid – For cooking the quinoa.
- Large bowl – To mix everything together.
- Whisk or fork – For mixing the dressing.
- Cutting board and knife – For chopping all those fresh veggies.
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to a Fresh and Flavorful Quinoa Salad
Follow these simple steps to create a quinoa salad that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Each step is designed to bring out the best in every ingredient!
- Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium pot, combine the quinoa and water, then bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Let it cool for a few minutes.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Chop the Veggies: While the quinoa cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and mint. Place all the veggies in a large bowl.
- Add the Quinoa: Once the quinoa has cooled to room temperature, add it to the bowl with the veggies.
- Add the Feta and Herbs: Sprinkle in the crumbled feta, fresh parsley, and mint. These add extra flavor and freshness.
- Pour in the Dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the salad, then toss everything gently to combine.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and add more salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve or Chill: You can enjoy the salad right away, or let it chill in the fridge for an hour to let the flavors meld. It’s great either way!
Cooking Time and Serving Size: Quick, Simple, and Ready to Go
Here’s the time breakdown and serving size for this recipe:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Serving Size: Serves 4-6 as a side, or 2-3 as a main dish
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~250 | Protein: 8g | Carbs: 30g | Fat: 12g
Tips and Variations: Make This Salad Your Own
Looking to customize? Here are some tips and variations to make this quinoa salad exactly the way you like it!
- Add Some Heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing can add a subtle kick.
- Go Vegan: Skip the feta or substitute with a vegan cheese option.
- Make It a Main Course: Add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or shrimp to turn this salad into a filling meal.
- Switch Up the Grains: Try swapping quinoa with farro or couscous for a different texture.
Presentation Tips: Serving Quinoa Salad Like a Pro
Serve the quinoa salad in a large, shallow bowl to show off all the beautiful colors. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra herbs or a few crumbles of feta on top for a polished look. This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, falafel, or even pita bread on the side.
Quinoa Salad FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Making quinoa salad for the first time? Here are answers to common questions to help you get perfect results.
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely! This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.
- What if I don’t have fresh herbs? You can use dried herbs, but reduce the amount to about 1 tsp each as they’re more concentrated.
- Can I serve this warm? Yes, you can serve it warm, especially if you’re adding freshly cooked quinoa. It’s delicious both warm and cold!
Dive into Freshness with Every Bite
This Quinoa Salad is fresh, vibrant, and perfect for any meal. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just looking for a light, nutritious lunch, this salad won’t disappoint. Packed with color, flavor, and goodness, each bite is a reminder of just how delicious healthy eating can be. So grab your fork, and enjoy the goodness!
