quinoa power salad recipe
A vibrant and nutrient-dense quinoa power salad packed with fresh cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers, all tossed in a zesty lemon-dijon vinaigrette. This versatile dish is perfect for healthy meal prepping and busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 cup dry Quinoa (rinsed well)
2 cups Vegetable broth or water
1 large Cucumber, diced
1 pint Cherry tomatoes, halved
1 large Red bell pepper, diced
0.5 small Red onion, finely diced
0.5 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
0.25 cup Fresh mint, chopped
0.25 cup Extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons Lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove Garlic, minced
0.5 teaspoon Salt
0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh sieve to remove bitter saponins
- Combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed
- Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and spread on a baking sheet to cool completely
- While quinoa cools, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely dice the red onio
- Chop the fresh parsley and mint, then combine all vegetables and herbs in a large mixing bowl
- In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper
- Add the cooled quinoa to the vegetable bowl and pour the dressing over the top
- Toss gently until well combined and coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor
Notes
Do not skip rinsing the quinoa or it may taste bitter.
Spreading the cooked quinoa on a baking sheet helps it cool faster and prevents a soggy salad.
For extra protein, add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or crumbled feta cheese.
The salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Find it online: https://powerecipe.com/quinoa-power-salad-recipe/