Healthy Quinoa Salad Recipe

Quinoa salad is a nutritious and refreshing dish that's perfect for summertime picnics or casual meals. With its versatility in flavors and textures, this salad can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal.

Ingredients needed for a healthy quinoa salad:

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• ½ cucumber, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 ripe avocado, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold running water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa has fluffed up.
4. Transfer the cooked quinoa into a large bowl. Allow it to cool slightly before adding other ingredients.
5. Add diced cucumber, red onion, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese (optional), olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well until all components are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
6. For added flavor, you can garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired before serving. If not using it right away, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Cooking time: Approximately 25 minutes including preparation and cooling of quinoa. Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.

Quinoa salad is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients such as protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals like magnesium and iron. It’s a great way to incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet while enjoying something tasty and filling. You can adjust the ingredients according to personal preferences—perhaps adding black beans or corn for extra protein, or swapping out feta cheese with another type of cheese if preferred.

The versatility of quinoa makes it suitable for various occasions. For a light lunch, serve this salad on its own with a side of whole-grain bread; alternatively, use it as part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal alongside roasted vegetables and a simple garlic hummus dip. If you prefer something heartier, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to elevate the dish into dinner.

Quinoa is easily found at most supermarkets nowadays, making this recipe accessible even for those new to cooking whole grains. Its mild flavor pairs well with many other ingredients, allowing endless creative possibilities. Experiment by trying different herbs like mint or basil instead of cilantro; or perhaps explore adding some nuts such as almonds or walnuts for a crunchier texture. Each addition brings unique flavors and textures that complement the base components beautifully.

Remember to rinse quinoa before cooking to remove any saponin, which gives it a soapy taste if not properly cleaned off. For optimal results when preparing this salad, make sure your ingredients are fresh—particularly ripe avocados which should be firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure at the tip of the stone.

Quinoa salad stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking balanced nutrition in their meals without sacrificing taste or convenience. Whether served hot after cooking (which can create a warm quinoa salad) or cold straight from the fridge, this dish offers endless possibilities for customization and enjoyment.