If you’re in search of a tasty and healthy recipe, look no further! This quinoa salad is easy to make, versatile, and bursting with flavors. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or just looking for a quick meal option, this salad is a winner.
Quinoa, the star ingredient of this recipe, is a superfood that is rich in protein and fiber. It is also gluten-free and contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. Quinoa is a great substitute for rice or pasta and can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads like this one.
For this quinoa salad, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced
– For the dressing:
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
To start, rinse the quinoa thoroughly under running water to remove any bitterness. Then, in a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa to the broth, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables by chopping the red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the diced vegetables, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced olives.
For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
This quinoa salad can be enjoyed immediately, but it’s even better if you let it sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. The salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it a perfect dish for picnics, potlucks, or as a healthy packed lunch option.
The beauty of this quinoa salad recipe is its versatility. You can customize it to your liking by adding or substituting ingredients. If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, try adding some cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, and crumbled feta cheese. For an extra protein boost, toss in some cooked chicken or chickpeas.