Quinoa Salad Recipe for a Fresh Summer Meal

Quinoa salad is a popular dish that has gained significant attention in recent years due to its versatility and health benefits. This versatile grain can be prepared in various ways, making it an excellent choice for those looking for something new yet familiar in their meal repertoire.

This refreshing quinoa salad recipe not only provides a delightful taste experience but also offers numerous nutritional advantages. The combination of crunchy vegetables, savory herbs, and mild flavors makes this dish perfect for any occasion. You can enjoy it as a main course or serve alongside your favorite grilled meats and fish. The cooking time for this recipe is approximately 25 minutes, and the total preparation time should not exceed an hour. This dish serves four people.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of quinoa (rinsed)
• 2 cups of water
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup of cucumber, diced
• ¼ cup of fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon juice

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the quinoa. Place the rinsed quinoa in a pot with 2 cups of water over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed.

2. While the quinoa cooks, prepare the other ingredients. Finely chop the red onion, dice the cucumber, and halve the cherry tomatoes. In a large bowl, combine these vegetables along with some fresh parsley.

3. Add the cooked quinoa to the mixture in the bowl. Once all the ingredients are combined well, drizzle over 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Squeeze lemon juice over it for a burst of freshness and taste. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.

4. Let the salad sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows all flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Nutritional Information

This quinoa salad is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It contains good amounts of fiber from both the quinoa and the vegetables used in the dish. Additionally, it provides a significant amount of protein thanks to the quinoa component.

One serving (about one-quarter of the entire recipe) includes approximately:

• About 230 calories
• 4 grams of fat
• 5 grams of fiber
• 8 grams of protein

Tips for Making this Salad

To make sure your quinoa salad turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:

• Rinse the Quinoa Carefully: Always rinse quinoa under cold water before cooking. This step helps remove any saponins that give the grain a soapy taste.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshness of vegetables and herbs makes all the difference in salad dishes. Try to use them as soon after purchasing as possible for the best results.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dish before finalizing it. Adjust salt, pepper, or any other seasoning based on what you prefer most.

Variations and Combinations

Feel free to customize this basic recipe by adding more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots if desired. You could also add some feta cheese for a bit of tanginess or avocado for extra creaminess. This versatile salad works well with different types of dressings too; try it with vinaigrette, tahini sauce, or even just a drizzle of lemon juice and olive oil.

Incorporating this quinoa salad into your weekly meal plan is an easy way to bring some freshness and health benefits to your diet. Its simplicity makes it ideal for busy weeknight dinners when you want something light yet satisfying. Enjoy exploring the possibilities with this adaptable and nutritious dish!