Herbed Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Fresh, light, and packed with nutrients, this Herbed Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is the ultimate side dish or light meal. The fluffy quinoa is paired with a medley of fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette to create a dish that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a healthy lunch, this salad is versatile and quick to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa and salt, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed all the water. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Allow to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- While the quinoa is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped vegetables, and fresh herbs.
- Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Add crumbled feta cheese, if using, and gently mix.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Note
- Cooling the Quinoa: For a cold salad, spread the quinoa on a baking sheet to cool faster.
- Customizable Base: Swap quinoa with couscous, bulgur, or farro for a different grain base.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Enjoy as a standalone vegetarian dish, perfect for lunch or light dinner.
- Pair with pita bread and hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired spread.
Tips for Perfect Quinoa Salad
- Rinse the Quinoa: Rinsing removes its natural bitterness for a cleaner flavor.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Parsley and mint add vibrant flavor; avoid dried herbs for this salad.
- Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop over time.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Fat: 9g
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this salad vegan?Yes, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- What other vegetables can I add?Try adding bell peppers, radishes, or shredded carrots for more color and crunch.
- How do I store leftovers?Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I use pre-cooked quinoa?Absolutely! Pre-cooked quinoa saves time and works perfectly in this recipe.
- Can I double the recipe?Yes, this recipe scales well. Double the ingredients for a larger batch, perfect for gatherings or meal prep.
Summary
This Herbed Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a refreshing, healthy dish that’s easy to prepare and endlessly versatile. Bursting with fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing, it’s a go-to recipe for busy days or special occasions. Serve it as a side or enjoy it on its own for a light and nutritious meal.
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