Quinoa Salad with Crunchy Veggies
A vibrant quinoa salad packed with crisp veggies that's ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a light lunch or a hearty side dish.
Total: 25 minPrep: 10 minCook: 15 minServes 4
Ingredients
Servings:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
- 1 Rinse quinoa under cold water until water runs clear.
- 2 Combine quinoa and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.
- 3 Transfer cooked quinoa to a large bowl and let it cool for 5 minutes.
- 4 Add cucumber, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley to the quinoa.
- 5 Whisk together olive oil and lemon juice, then pour over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 6 Toss everything together until well combined and serve.
Nutrition
Calories:
300 kcal
Tips
- For added protein, toss in some chickpeas or grilled chicken.
- This salad tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for an hour.
- Swap parsley for cilantro if you prefer a different flavor.
- Toast the quinoa before cooking for a nuttier flavor.
- Use cherry tomatoes on the vine for a fun presentation.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled salmon for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside warm pita bread for a satisfying lunch.
- Add feta cheese for a tangy twist.
- Enjoy with a side of hummus for extra flavor.
FAQ
Can I make this quinoa salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes better after chilling for an hour.
What can I use instead of quinoa?
Couscous or rice work well as alternatives.
How do I know when the quinoa is done cooking?
Quinoa is ready when all the water is absorbed and the grains are translucent with a little curl at the end.
Can I freeze this salad?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze without dressing for up to a month.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free quinoa.