Looking for a quick, healthy meal that doesn’t take a lot of time to prepare? This 5-ingredient quinoa salad is your answer! Packed with protein and flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a light lunch.
With just five simple ingredients, you can create a nourishing dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re meal prepping or just need a last-minute dinner option, this quinoa salad delivers deliciousness without the fuss.
Fresh Ingredients for a Nourishing Salad
This quinoa salad features a delightful combination of vibrant, fresh ingredients that are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrition.
Cherry tomatoes lend a pop of color and a burst of juiciness, while diced cucumber adds a refreshing crunch. Fresh parsley brings a hint of earthiness, tying all the flavors together beautifully.
Preparation Steps to a Perfect Salad
Start by cooking the quinoa until it’s fluffy. This serves as the foundation of the salad, providing a hearty texture and protein boost. Once the quinoa has cooled, it’s time to prepare your vegetables.
Chop the tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley with care. The goal is to maintain their freshness and ensure each bite is filled with flavor.
The Zesty Dressing
A simple drizzle of lemon juice not only enhances the dish’s flavor but also adds a bright, zesty note. This dressing complements the fresh vegetables, giving the salad a lively finish.
Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste, as this will elevate the flavors even more, making the salad irresistible.
Serving Suggestions
This quinoa salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it as a light lunch or as a side dish during dinner. It can be served cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prep.
Arranging lemon wedges around the bowl not only adds a decorative touch but also provides an extra burst of citrus for those who desire a more pronounced flavor.
Health Benefits
Incorporating quinoa into your diet offers numerous health benefits. It’s a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent choice for those seeking plant-based nutrition.
The combination of vegetables contributes vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, promoting overall health and wellness. This salad is a guilt-free option that can be enjoyed without compromising your dietary goals.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This vibrant quinoa salad is a crowd-pleaser, making it suitable for various occasions, from casual family dinners to potlucks and picnics. Its colorful presentation is sure to attract attention on any table.
Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this salad is not only visually stunning but also delicious and fulfilling. It encapsulates the essence of fresh, healthy eating.
Quick and Easy Quinoa Salad
This delightful quinoa salad is a refreshing blend of fluffy quinoa, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing. It’s healthy, light, and bursting with flavors that make each bite enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium pot, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Let it cool.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While quinoa is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley.
- Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper. Toss until everything is well combined.
- Serve: Enjoy this quinoa salad as a light meal or a side dish. It can be served cold or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g