Are you looking for a healthy and refreshing recipe that’s perfect for lunch or dinner? Look no further! This Quinoa Salad with Fresh Veggies is not only packed with nutrients but also super easy to make. Let’s dive into this delicious Quinoa Salad Recipe that will have health enthusiasts coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Rinse the Quinoa
Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water. This helps remove any bitterness. Use a fine-mesh strainer for best results.
Step 2: Cook the Quinoa
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water (or vegetable broth) and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Cook until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. This is a crucial step for any Quinoa Salad Recipe.
Step 3: Let It Cool
Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let the quinoa cool for about 10 minutes. Fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
Step 4: Prepare the Veggies
While the quinoa is cooling, chop your veggies! Dice the cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the parsley to prepare them for your Quinoa Salad Recipe.
Step 5: Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This dressing will add a burst of flavor to your Quinoa Salad Recipe!
Step 6: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chopped veggies, and parsley. If you’re using feta cheese, add it in now. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Give your salad a taste! You can adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Your Quinoa Salad with Fresh Veggies is ready to serve! You can enjoy it immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes for an even fresher taste. This Quinoa Salad Recipe is perfect as a side dish or a light main course.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious: Quinoa is a complete protein, making this salad a great option for health enthusiasts.
- Versatile: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins, like chickpeas or grilled chicken.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy days.
Conclusion
This Quinoa Salad with Fresh Veggies is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that will fuel your body. It’s a fantastic option for meal prep or a quick lunch. Give this Quinoa Salad Recipe a try, and you’ll see why health enthusiasts love it!
