Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey in salad-making with this Powerhouse Quinoa Salad! This vibrant dish bursts with colors and flavors, making it not just a meal but a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or as a side dish at your next gathering, this salad is packed with protein and nutrients. Enjoy the combination of nutty quinoa, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty dressing that brings everything together beautifully. Get ready to savor every bite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by rinsing your quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with the vegetable broth or water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed. After removing from heat, allow the quinoa to sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff it with a fork after resting.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the fluffy quinoa, rinsed chickpeas, diced bell pepper, cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and freshly chopped parsley. The colorful medley is sure to brighten your day!
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This zesty dressing will elevate all the flavors of your salad!
- Pour the tangy dressing over the quinoa mixture, gently tossing everything together until well coated. If you’re adding feta cheese, gently fold it into the salad at this stage for an extra layer of creaminess.
- Enjoy your salad immediately, or for a more mellow flavor, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let all the ingredients meld together before serving.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite veggies like avocado, shredded carrots, or even spinach for added nutrition and color.
- If you want a bit of crunch, consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds or almonds.
- For a vegan option, simply skip the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
Cooking Techniques
The key technique here is properly cooking quinoa. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly before cooking, as this will help remove the saponins that can give it a bitter taste. When simmering, keep an eye on the heat to ensure that it cooks evenly without burning.
FAQ
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! This salad holds up well in the refrigerator, making it ideal for meal prep. Just be sure to add the dressing right before serving for the best flavor.
- How long does this salad stay fresh? You can enjoy the leftovers for up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Can I use other grains instead of quinoa? Absolutely! This recipe works great with other grains like farro, bulgur, or even brown rice.
Conclusion
This Powerhouse Quinoa Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Each mouthful is a wonderful blend of textures and flavors that will leave you feeling light yet satisfied. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, a hearty side, or a dish to impress at a gathering, this salad fits the bill perfectly. So grab your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and whip up this delightful dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious!