Print

Fresh Quinoa Salad Recipe Easy Healthy Vegetable Boost in 10 Minutes

fresh quinoa salad recipe - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy fresh quinoa salad packed with vibrant vegetables, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect for a healthy boost any time of day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (185g) quinoa, rinsed well
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional add-ins: crumbled feta, toasted pine nuts, or sliced avocado

Instructions

  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold running water for about 30 seconds using a fine mesh sieve. Drain well.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with 2 cups (475ml) water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.
  3. Remove from heat and let quinoa sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and transfer to a large mixing bowl to cool slightly.
  4. While quinoa cooks, dice cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, dice red bell pepper, finely chop red onion, and chop parsley and mint.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Add chopped vegetables and herbs to the cooled quinoa. Pour dressing over and gently toss until evenly coated. Add optional feta or pine nuts if desired.
  7. Refrigerate salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Rinse quinoa well to remove bitterness. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. Toss gently to keep quinoa texture intact. Salad tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight. Add optional ingredients like feta or pine nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: quinoa salad, healthy salad, quick salad, vegetable salad, gluten-free, vegetarian, easy recipe

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/fresh-quinoa-salad-recipe-easy-healthy-vegetable-boost-in-10-minutes/