Looking for a nutritious and satisfying lunch that won’t weigh you down? This Wholesome Quinoa Salad is packed with flavor and health benefits. Quinoa is a complete protein, rich in essential amino acids, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. This salad is not only low in calories—around 300 calories per serving—but also provides sustained energy, making it perfect for your midday meal. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious and healthy lunch even on the busiest days.
Servings and Preparation Time
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Wholesome Quinoa Salad
- Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove its bitter coating. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth (or water) and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. In a large mixing bowl, combine these chopped vegetables along with the parsley and feta cheese (if using).
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
- Combine Ingredients: Once the quinoa has cooled, fluff it with a fork and add it to the bowl of vegetables. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Serve: This salad can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your refreshing and nutritious quinoa salad!
Tips for the Best Results
For optimal flavor, let the salad sit for a while after mixing in the dressing. This allows the quinoa to absorb the flavors of the vegetables and dressing, enhancing the overall taste. You can customize this salad by adding your favorite ingredients, such as chickpeas for extra protein, avocado for creaminess, or a variety of other seasonal vegetables.
Feel free to adjust the quantities and types of vegetables based on your preference or what’s available in your pantry. Dilerseniz damak zevkinize göre kendiniz küçük malzeme ilaveleri veya çıkarmalar yapabilirsiniz. This versatile salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome lunch!
