Quinoa Salad Recipe: A Nutritious and Flavorful Summer Dish

Quinoa has long been a favorite among health-conscious eaters for its versatility and nutritional benefits. This grain is not only high in protein but also rich in essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Whether you're looking to pack your lunch or serve as part of a meal, quinoa salad offers an easy and delicious way to enjoy this superfood. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps to make a tasty and nutritious quinoa salad that can be enjoyed all summer long.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup of uncooked quinoa
• 2 cups of water or vegetable broth
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 small red onion, minced
• ½ cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup of fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A sprinkle of feta cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Rinse the quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any saponins that can make the quinoa bitter.

Step 2: In a medium saucepan, bring the rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth to a boil over high heat.

Step 3: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender. You will know it’s done when you see little tails coming out of the grains.

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p>Step 4: Remove from heat and fluff with a fork to ensure all kernels are separated.</

Step 5: While the quinoa is cooking, prepare your vegetables by dicing the cucumber, chopping the bell pepper, mincing the red onion, and halving the cherry tomatoes. Set these aside in a large bowl.

Step 6: Once the quinoa has cooled slightly, add it to the bowl with the vegetables. Drizzle over two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and one tablespoon of lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Cooking Tip

For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder to the dressing for an extra kick. You can also swap out the cucumber and bell pepper for other vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or even some cooked chickpeas for more texture.

Garnishing & Serving

For added color and a nice garnish, sprinkle fresh parsley on top of your salad before serving. If desired, crumble feta cheese over the top to add a tangy element that pairs well with the quinoa's nuttiness. Serve this refreshing dish as part of a light meal or enjoy it cold as a side during warm summer days.

Enjoy this simple yet satisfying meal! It’s perfect for those looking to incorporate more plant-based proteins and whole grains into their diet without compromising on flavor.

Why Choose Quinoa Salad?

• Nutritious: Packed with essential amino acids, fiber, vitamins B6 & E, magnesium, iron, potassium, and antioxidants, quinoa provides a balanced meal that can help keep you energized throughout the day.
• Low in Calories: Despite being high-protein, quinoa is relatively low-calorie, making it ideal for anyone watching their weight while still wanting to eat healthily.
• Easily Digestible: Due to its small size and rounded shape, quinoa digests quickly compared to other grains like wheat or barley. This makes it a great option for those with digestive issues.
• High in Fiber: With around 25 grams of fiber per cup cooked, this versatile grain supports heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and promoting regular bowel movements.
• Versatile: From breakfast porridge to lunchtime salads or dinner mains, quinoa can be adapted into various dishes depending on what ingredients you have at home.

Quinoa salad is not only easy to prepare but also a great way to experiment with different flavors and textures. Experiment by adding sunflower seeds, raisins, or even grilled chicken for extra protein if desired. The combinations are endless! Try making this recipe today and experience the joy of preparing a healthy yet delicious meal.