Quick and Easy Quinoa Salad is your go-to dish when you crave something fresh, light, and satisfying. This recipe balances vibrant vegetables with the nutty flavor of quinoa, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish at dinner. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Quinoa is the star of this salad, providing a slightly nutty flavor and a fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with the crisp vegetables. Make sure to rinse it well to remove any bitterness.
Cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, while cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness and color. The red onion gives a subtle sharpness, balancing the salad's flavors.
Red bell pepper contributes a sweet, mild taste and vibrant color, while fresh parsley and mint elevate the dish with their aromatic freshness.
Olive oil and lemon juice form a simple yet effective dressing that ties all the ingredients together, with a touch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
This quinoa salad is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish. It’s a great side dish for a barbecue or a light, refreshing addition to a picnic spread. You can even stuff it into pita bread for a quick, portable lunch.
Start by rinsing your quinoa under cold water. This step is crucial to remove any saponin residue, which can make it taste bitter. Once rinsed, bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan, then add the quinoa. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed.
While the quinoa cooks, you can prepare the vegetables. Dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion. Chop up the fresh parsley and mint as well. Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it cool for a bit.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with your prepped veggies and herbs. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss everything together until it’s well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Your salad is ready to serve immediately, or you can store it in the fridge for later. It holds up well, so it’s a great make-ahead option!
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