Quinoa, known as a superfood for its high nutritional value, versatility, and delicious taste, has become a staple in many kitchens. Our recipe today celebrates this ancient grain’s unique qualities by combining it with fresh ingredients to create a colorful and flavorful dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or planning a gathering with friends, this quinoa recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful Quinoa Salad!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– Handful of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
For the dressing:
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitterness. Drain well.
2. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, diced bell peppers, cucumber, red onion, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and mint. Gently toss to mix well.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad and toss until evenly coated.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra freshness.
7. Chill the quinoa salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Serve the Quinoa Salad chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
This Quinoa Salad is not only delicious but also packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a healthy addition to your menu. You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables, nuts, or seeds to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this vibrant and nutritious dish as a main course or as a side at your next gathering. It’s a great way to incorporate more wholesome ingredients into your diet while enjoying a burst of flavors in every bite. Cheers to good food and good company with this delightful Quinoa Salad!
