A vibrant and healthy quinoa salad packed with fresh vegetables and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Author:Caroline Hayes
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:35 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Salad
Method:No-Cook
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 cup chopped cucumber
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped red onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
For the Dressing:
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the quinoa: Combine rinsed quinoa and water or broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed. Let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Prepare the vegetables: While the quinoa cooks, chop the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the red bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion. Chop the fresh parsley and mint.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and mint.
Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve: Serve immediately or chill for later. This salad is great for meal planning.
Notes
For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or your favorite protein.
Roast vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
This salad is a good option for those looking for healthy grain bowl ideas.