Looking for a refreshing and nutritious dish that will tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than Leah's Vegetable Quinoa Salad! This vibrant salad is not only packed with colorful vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, but it also comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. Imagine the delightful crunch of cucumber, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the zesty kick of lemon all harmonizing in one bowl. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a healthy meal, this salad is sure to impress. Dive into the recipe and discover how to create this deliciously satisfying dish!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This helps remove any bitterness from the quinoa.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Dice 1 cup of cucumber, halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, and dice 1/2 cup of red onion. Place all the chopped vegetables into a large mixing bowl.
- After the quinoa is finished cooking, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the quinoa with a fork and allow it to cool slightly.
- Add the fluffed quinoa to the bowl with the diced vegetables. Then, add 1/4 cup of chopped parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste. This will be your dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture, and gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can serve it immediately or refrigerate it for later.
- Serve Leah's Vegetable Quinoa Salad chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Tips
- Rinse the Quinoa: Always rinse your quinoa under cold water before cooking to remove any bitterness and ensure a light, fluffy texture.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables! Bell peppers, carrots, or avocados can add extra flavor and nutrition to the salad.
- Make it Ahead: This salad can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it an excellent meal prep option!
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese to the salad for an extra protein boost.
- Serve it Chilled: While this salad can be enjoyed at room temperature, serving it chilled enhances the refreshing flavors, especially on a hot day.
- Experiment with Dressings: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different dressings. A balsamic vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing can offer a delightful twist!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
