Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish, salads are always a great choice. This gluten-free recipe combines a variety of fresh ingredients to create a delicious and nutritious meal. Packed with flavors and textures, this salad is not only healthy but also easy to make. Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone looking for a flavorful dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
**Quinoa and Chickpea Mediterranean Salad**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup quinoa
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
– 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Quinoa:** Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool.
2. **Prepare the Chickpeas:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, parsley, and mint.
3. **Add the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. **Add the Feta Cheese:** Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad and gently mix it in.
5. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!
This Quinoa and Chickpea Mediterranean Salad is a perfect dish for a light lunch or a healthy side at dinner. The combination of quinoa, chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and flavorful herbs makes it a satisfying and nutritious meal. The tanginess of the feta cheese adds a nice contrast to the freshness of the vegetables, creating a well-balanced dish that is sure to please your taste buds.
Feel free to customize this salad by adding your favorite ingredients such as roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or grilled chicken for extra protein. You can also drizzle some balsamic glaze or sprinkle some toasted pine nuts for additional flavor and texture.
This gluten-free salad is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more plant-based proteins and fiber into your diet. Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for easy meal prep throughout the week. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a side dish at dinner, this Quinoa and Chickpea Mediterranean Salad is a versatile and flavorful option for any occasion.
