There’s something overwhelmingly comforting about gathering around the kitchen table with the ones we love, sharing stories, laughter, and heartwarming meals. Our Quinoa Salad Recipe is a testament to the power of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create something both nourishing and delightful. Bursting with vibrant colors and crisp textures, this salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a light family lunch or a cheerful summer picnic. The blend of cooked quinoa with crunchy diced vegetables and a zesty dressing makes it not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. It’s an opportunity to bring a splash of creativity and wellness to your table.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start by cooking the quinoa. Rinse the quinoa under cold water, then combine it with 2 cups of water in a medium-sized pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is fully absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the diced bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and mint.
- Add the cooked quinoa to the bowl and mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for an hour to let the flavors meld together.
Helpful Tips
- For added protein, consider adding some chickpeas or grilled chicken strips to the salad.
- Feel free to substitute fresh herbs with dried ones, though the flavor will be slightly different.
- Experiment with different vegetables like avocados, carrots, or radishes to make the salad your own.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad appears dry upon serving, freshen it up with a little more olive oil and lemon juice.
Pairings
This Quinoa Salad pairs beautifully with grilled fish, lemon herb chicken, or a refreshing glass of iced tea for a well-rounded meal.
At Zynahz, our mission is to infuse joy and creativity into every meal you prepare. I encourage you to try this Quinoa Salad Recipe and share your delightful results with the Zynahz community. Let your family and friends know about this healthy, vibrant dish by sharing the recipe with them. Don’t forget to explore more recipes on Zynahz, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter for a continuous stream of culinary inspiration. Here’s to making every meal a cherished memory with Zynahz.
