Quinoa Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This quinoa salad is a nutrient powerhouse, combining the benefits of quinoa with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing. It’s a great option for those following plant-based, gluten-free, or healthy eating diets, as quinoa is a complete protein and a fantastic source of fiber. The salad is refreshing and light, yet satisfying enough to be a meal on its own or served as a side dish. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, requires minimal cooking, and can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal option for meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

• 2 cups water or vegetable broth

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cucumber, diced

• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

• 1/4 cup roasted almonds or sunflower seeds (optional)

For the dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by cooking the quinoa: In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water (or vegetable broth) to a boil. Add the quinoa, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fully cooked and the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes.

2. While the quinoa is cooling, prepare the vegetables: Dice the cucumber, chop the red onion, and halve the cherry tomatoes and bell pepper.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper to create the dressing.

4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped vegetables, parsley, and any optional ingredients like feta cheese or nuts.

5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes (plus cooling time)

• Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Add roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or zucchini for a heartier salad.

• Toss in some avocado slices for extra creaminess.

• For added protein, try adding chickpeas, black beans, or grilled chicken.

• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the dressing.

• You can swap feta cheese with goat cheese, mozzarella, or a dairy-free option if you prefer.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover quinoa salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Quinoa salad is best served cold, but it can be eaten at room temperature if preferred. No reheating is necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I make quinoa salad ahead of time?

Yes, quinoa salad can be made ahead of time. In fact, it tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute quinoa with other grains like couscous, farro, barley, or bulgur, depending on your preference.

3. Is quinoa salad gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this salad a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or following a gluten-free diet.

4. Can I use a different dressing for this salad?

Absolutely! You can swap the dressing with a balsamic vinaigrette, tahini dressing, or even a simple olive oil and lemon juice mixture, depending on your taste preferences.

5. Can I add protein to this quinoa salad?

Yes! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or even tofu to the salad to make it more filling and protein-packed.

6. How can I make this salad spicier?

To add heat, you can incorporate red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a spicy dressing made with sriracha or hot sauce.

7. Can I make this salad without cheese?

Yes, the salad can easily be made dairy-free by skipping the feta cheese or using a dairy-free alternative.

8. Can I use frozen vegetables in this salad?

Fresh vegetables work best for this recipe, but if you only have frozen vegetables, be sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the salad.

9. How can I make quinoa fluffier?

To make quinoa fluffier, ensure you rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. After cooking, let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff it with a fork.

10. How do I store leftover quinoa salad?

Store leftover quinoa salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving again.

Conclusion

Quinoa salad is a versatile, nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or a side dish, it’s full of flavor and easy to customize. With its combination of fresh vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and tangy dressing, this salad is a healthy and delicious option that everyone will love. Make it ahead for meal prep or serve it fresh at your next gathering—either way, it’s sure to be a hit!