Description
Elevate your meal prep with this vibrant Easy Quinoa Salad, a perfect blend of nutritious ingredients that come together in just 25 minutes. Ideal for busy families, this salad features protein-packed quinoa, hearty chickpeas, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a refreshing side, its versatility makes it suitable for any occasion—from casual lunches to elegant dinners and even outdoor picnics. The zesty dressing of lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil enhances the flavors while keeping it light and refreshing. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly; the flavors deepen beautifully after a day in the fridge.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup raw quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 can chickpeas (15 ounces)
- 1 medium cucumber
- 1 medium red bell pepper
- 3/4 cup red onion
- 1 cup flat-leaf parsley
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer.
- In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and water; bring to boil then simmer covered for 15 minutes until water is absorbed.
- While quinoa cooks, dice cucumber and bell pepper; chop onion and parsley.
- Whisk together dressing ingredients in a mixing bowl.
- Fluff cooled quinoa with a fork in a large bowl; add chickpeas, vegetables, and dressing. Toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley; serve immediately or refrigerate for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg