This healthy quinoa salad is fresh, colorful, and easy to make. It combines fluffy quinoa with crisp vegetables, chickpeas, fresh herbs, and a simple lemon dressing.
It is a light and satisfying meal that works well for lunch, dinner, meal prep, or as a side dish for family meals.
Healthy Quinoa Salad
A fresh and healthy quinoa salad made with crisp vegetables, chickpeas, herbs, and a simple lemon dressing.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (170 g) uncooked quinoa
- 2 cups (480 ml) water
- 1 cup (165 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ small red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup (15 g) fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. Add it to a saucepan with the water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed.
- Cool the quinoa: Remove from the heat and let the quinoa rest covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
- Make the dressing: Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine: Add the cooled quinoa to the vegetable mixture. Pour over the dressing and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes to let the flavors come together.
Tips
- Rinse quinoa well before cooking to remove its natural bitter coating.
- Let the quinoa cool before mixing so the vegetables stay crisp.
- For extra flavor, add a little crumbled feta cheese before serving.
- Adjust the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a gentle toss before serving.
FAQ
Can I make quinoa salad ahead of time?
Yes. It is a great make-ahead recipe. Prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving.
Can I use another grain instead of quinoa?
Yes. Couscous, bulgur, or cooked brown rice can work well, although the texture and cooking time will be different.
Can I add more protein?
Yes. Chickpeas already add plant-based protein, and you can also add grilled chicken, beans, or feta depending on your preference.