Perfectly Balanced Quinoa Salad Recipe

Quinoa salad is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that makes for a perfect side dish or main course. This versatile grain is rich in protein and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6 people

Quinoa salad can be enjoyed anytime of the year, especially as a refreshing dish during warmer months. It pairs beautifully with various toppings and dressings to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 1 cup water or vegetable broth
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 avocado, cubed
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Dressing of your choice: lemon vinaigrette or olive oil and balsamic vinegar

This recipe provides a healthy and satisfying meal without compromising on flavor. The combination of quinoa, cucumbers, bell peppers, tomatoes, and avocado offers a refreshing crunch. Adding crumbled feta cheese adds a savory element, while the choice of dressing can make it creamy or tangy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cooking Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water or vegetable broth to a boil with the rinsed quinoa. Lower heat and cover. Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
2. Prepping Vegetables: Dice cucumber and chop red bell pepper into small pieces. Halve cherry tomatoes if desired, and prepare them to your liking. If using avocado, cube it into bite-sized pieces while keeping it from browning by sprinkling lemon juice over it.
3. Mixing Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa with the diced cucumber, chopped red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, and cubed avocado. If adding feta cheese, mix it gently into the salad.
4. Dressing It Up: Drizzle your chosen dressing over the mixture. For a traditional lemon vinaigrette, whisk together 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Alternatively, use store-bought olive oil and balsamic vinegar for an easy shortcut.
5. Final Touch: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add more dressing or a pinch of salt. Serve immediately at room temperature.

This quinoa salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It can be served as a light meal, packed in lunch boxes for work or school, or enjoyed on its own with some grilled chicken or fish for a heartier option.

Benefits of Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is a superfood rich in essential amino acids and other nutrients. By incorporating quinoa into your diet, you can reap several health benefits:

• Protein-Rich: A single cup of cooked quinoa contains about 8 grams of protein.
• Fiber Content: Quinoa is high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and supports heart health.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Quinoa provides a good amount of iron, magnesium, copper, manganese, phosphorus, and folate.

Incorporating more quinoa salad into your weekly menu can help you stay energized and nourished. This dish is not only beneficial for the body but also enjoyable to prepare and eat.

Modification Ideas

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and dressings to suit your taste preferences:

• Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
• Vary Vegetables: Try adding other vegetables like carrots, radishes, or zucchini for additional color and crunch.
• Dress It Differently: Change up the dressing by using tahini sauce, honey mustard, or even a simple oil and vinegar mix. For those following a dairy-free diet, you can use vegan-friendly dressings.

This versatile quinoa salad is perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or served with main dishes, it’s an easy go-to recipe that satisfies everyone's taste buds. Try this dish today and experience the delightful balance of flavors and textures in your next meal.