Description
Crispy Quinoa Salad is a vibrant, healthy dish that brings a delightful crunch to your table. Packed with fresh vegetables and nutty quinoa, this salad is perfect for any occasion. Tossed in a zesty lemon dressing, it not only pleases the palate but also leaves you feeling great about your meal choice. Ideal for picnics, family gatherings, or meal prep, this dish is customizable with seasonal ingredients. Enjoy each bite bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup tri-color quinoa
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or mint, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
- While quinoa cooks, chop cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper.
- Once quinoa has cooled slightly, combine it with the chopped veggies in a large bowl. Drizzle dressing over the top and toss gently.
- Fold in fresh herbs before serving chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Healthy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added crunch, consider including nuts or seeds. Roasting veggies before adding can enhance their flavor. This salad can be made ahead; just wait to dress it until serving for optimal freshness.