This Zesty Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish, perfect for a light lunch or as a side for any meal. Packed with protein-rich quinoa, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing, it’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Let it cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and parsley. If using, add the crumbled feta cheese.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Enjoy your zesty and refreshing quinoa salad!