I've got a new favorite quinoa salad recipe to share with you! I've made quite a few quinoa salads over the years, but this one takes the cake. It's light, crisp, and so tasty.
Quinoa is often called a superfood, and for good reason. It's packed with protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals.
What I love most about it is how versatile it is. You can mix it with almost any vegetable, fruit, or protein and create a delicious meal.
I often prepare a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. It's great for meal prep because it stays fresh in the fridge for several days. Plus, it tastes even better after the flavors have had time to mingle.
While it may seem basic, this salad has become a staple in my kitchen. I hope you'll love it as much as I do! Let me know if you try it.
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Why You'll Love This Quinoa Salad Recipe
You'll love how quick and easy this salad is to make. With just a few simple steps, you can have a nutritious meal ready in no time.
This salad is incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have in your fridge.
It's perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch on Sunday, and you'll have healthy lunches ready for the whole week.
Tips
Rinse your quinoa before cooking. This removes the natural coating called saponin, which can make quinoa taste bitter.
Let the quinoa cool completely before mixing it with the other ingredients. This prevents the vegetables from wilting and keeps the salad fresh.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different dressings. A simple lemon vinaigrette works great, but you can also try balsamic or even a creamy avocado dressing.
The Ingredients
Quinoa
Quinoa is the base of our salad. It's a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. Quinoa has a slightly nutty flavor and a fluffy texture when cooked.
Cucumber
Cucumber adds a refreshing crunch to the salad. It's low in calories and high in water content, making it great for hydration.
Cherry Tomatoes
These little bursts of flavor add color and a touch of sweetness to the salad. They're also packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
Red Onion
Red onion provides a sharp, tangy flavor that balances the mild quinoa. It also adds a nice pop of color.
Feta Cheese
Feta brings a creamy, salty element to the salad. It complements the other flavors perfectly.
How to Make Quinoa Salad
Cook the Quinoa
Rinse quinoa and cook according to package instructions. Let it cool completely.
Prepare the Vegetables
While the quinoa cooks, chop the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely dice the red onion.
Make the Dressing
Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs in a small bowl.
Combine and Serve
Mix the cooled quinoa with the prepared vegetables in a large bowl. Add the dressing and toss to combine. Crumble feta cheese over the top.
What to Serve With Quinoa Salad
- Slow Roasted Salmon
- Roasted chickpeas
- Crusty bread
- Hummus
- Pita bread
Substitutions
- Use couscous or bulgur wheat instead of quinoa
- Swap feta for goat cheese or leave it out for a vegan version
- Add different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It's perfect for meal prep.
Is quinoa gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free. It's a great option for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
📖 Recipe
Quinoa Salad
Equipment
- Saucepan for cooking quinoa
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board and knife
- Small bowl for dressing
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 cucumber diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ¼ red onion finely diced
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbled
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- fresh herbs like parsley or mint Optional
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa. Bring quinoa and water to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs if using.
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