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Quinoa Salad

Refreshing Quinoa Salad You'll Love to Make Today

This vibrant Quinoa Salad combines nutty quinoa with fresh vegetables for a refreshing dish that's perfect for gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Side Dishes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 cup quinoa Provides a nutty flavor and plenty of protein.
  • 2 cups vegetable broth Using broth enhances the quinoa’s flavor; water works fine.
For the Veggies
  • 1 medium cucumber Diced, adds a refreshing crunch.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes Halved, brings sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1 each bell pepper Diced, offers sweet crunch and color.
  • ½ medium red onion Finely diced, introduces mild savory depth.
For the Herbs
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley Chopped, freshens up the salad.
  • ¼ cup fresh mint Chopped, adds a refreshing note.
For the Dressing
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil Enhances richness, heart-healthy.
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice Balances flavors with tangy zing.
  • 1 clove garlic Minced, infuses aromatic punch.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Adds earthy hint.
  • salt To taste.
  • black pepper To taste.
Optional Add-Ins
  • crumbled feta For creaminess and salty kick.
  • toasted nuts Such as almonds or walnuts for crunch.
  • diced avocado Add just before serving.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • fine-mesh sieve
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • Fork

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water for about 30 seconds to remove saponin.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and let quinoa rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
  4. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and spread on a plate to cool.
  5. Prepare vegetables: dice cucumber, halve tomatoes, dice bell pepper, finely mince red onion, chop parsley and mint.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled quinoa, vegetables, and herbs, tossing gently.
  8. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
  9. If desired, fold in optional ingredients like feta and nuts.
  10. Serve immediately in a large bowl or individual plates.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Rinse quinoa well to remove bitterness. For best results, use fresh, seasonal vegetables.

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