Perfectly Balanced Quinoa Salad: A Nutritious Side Dish Recipe

Looking for a nutritious side dish that will add color and texture to your meal? Perfectly balanced quinoa salad is the answer! This recipe not only offers a delightful taste but also provides essential nutrients. With its vibrant mix of vegetables, beans, and tangy dressing, this dish can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth (optional)
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1 avocado, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Dressing:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Pinch of salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4-6 servings

Instructions:

To start, rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water. Place it in a medium saucepan along with two cups of water or vegetable broth (if desired) and bring to a boil over high heat.

Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. This process typically takes about 15 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and allow the quinoa to cool slightly.

Making the Dressing:

While your quinoa is cooking, prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.

Assembling the Salad:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with diced cucumber, chopped red bell pepper, chopped red onion, cubed avocado, and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure all components are evenly coated.

For an added touch of freshness, sprinkle fresh parsley on top just before serving. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes for extra flavor development.

Tips for Success:

1. Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh and crisp vegetables to enhance both texture and taste.
2. Better Flavor with Time: Letting the salad sit in the refrigerator before serving can intensify flavors, making it even more enjoyable!
3. Variations for Personal Taste: Feel free to adjust seasoning or add different herbs like cilantro if you prefer a particular flavor profile.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Total Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Sodium: 70 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 23 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugars: 4 g
• Protein: 5 g

This perfectly balanced quinoa salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with fiber and essential nutrients. It pairs well with main courses like grilled chicken, fish, or steak, making it a versatile option for your meal planning.

Health Benefits:

• Balanced Nutrition: Quinoa provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals along with fiber to promote digestive health.
• Vibrant Colors: The various vegetables in the salad provide antioxidants that help protect against chronic diseases.
• Diverse Flavor Profiles: The use of fresh ingredients ensures each bite offers a unique flavor experience.

Incorporate this simple yet satisfying quinoa salad into your weekly menu. Whether it's for lunch, dinner, or as a light snack, you'll love the burst of flavors and vibrant colors it brings to any plate!

Conclusion:

A perfectly balanced quinoa salad is an ideal way to introduce more wholesome ingredients into your diet without compromising on taste. Its adaptability makes it perfect for various occasions, whether it's a casual family dinner or a special occasion.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the benefits of its nutritional value alongside its delightful flavor!