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Favorite Quinoa Salad

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A bright and fresh quinoa salad packed with vegetables, herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing, perfect for any meal or as a lunch option.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup dry quinoa, well rinsed
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped (or use more parsley)
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • 1 avocado, diced (optional)
  • 2 cups baby arugula or spinach (optional)
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. Place a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rinsed quinoa (and a drizzle of oil if you like). Toast for 2 minutes, stirring.
  3. Add 2 cups water (or broth) and a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil.
  4. While it heats, chop cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and mint. Whisk the dressing: lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon, garlic, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  5. Once boiling, lower the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
  6. Simmer on low for 15 minutes, then remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool to warm room temp.
  7. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, chickpeas, veggies, and herbs. Pour in dressing and toss gently. Fold in feta and avocado (if using). Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon. Serve right away or chill.

Notes

For the best flavor, let the salad rest before serving. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 to 5 days. Add avocado just before serving to keep it fresh.

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