Who Knew Quinoa Salad Could Be So Delicious?! Try This Protein-Packed Recipe Today!

The grain quinoa, has taken the health-conscious world by storm in the last decade, and it’s easy to see why! Making it into this salad combines bright flavors, and an impressive nutritional profile. Whether you're aiming to eat healthier, have an easy on-the-go lunch option, or simply adding more protein to your meals, this quinoa salad will become your new favorite.

Quinoa is gluten-free, packed with vitamins and minerals, and serves up a significant protein punch. With the right mix of ingredients and seasonings, quinoa salad could be the easy to make highlight of your week.

Why Quinoa?

Often called a superfood, quinoa really lives up to its name. Just one cup of cooked quinoa provides about 8 grams of protein, 5 grams of fiber, and significant amounts of magnesium, iron, and B vitamins. It's also a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, making it ideal for vegetarians and vegans seeking alternatives to animal-based proteins.

With its light, fluffy texture and mild, nutty flavor, quinoa pairs beautifully with various ingredients. When you add fresh veggies, healthy fats, and a zingy dressing, you take quinoa to the next level in this salad.

The Key Ingredients to this Quinoa Salad Recipe

Before we get into the specifics of preparing the salad, let's look at what you'll need:

• 2 cups quinoa, rinsed (it removes the saponin, which can make it taste soapy)

• 1 quart vegetable stock (or water)

• 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 english cucumber, diced

• 1 red pepper, seeded and diced

• 1 carrot, shredded

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

• 8 oz.  feta cheeses, cubed

• ½ red onion, minced

• ½ cup fresh basil, chopped

• ½ cup flat leaf parsley, chopped

• 1 avocado, diced

• ⅓ cup EV olive oil

• ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar

• 1 teaspoon garlic salt

• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard

• salt and pepper to taste2 cups of water or vegetable broth: Adding broth enhances the flavor of the quinoa as it cooks.

  
  

Feel free to mix and match ingredients! Quinoa salad is incredibly versatile, allowing you to use whatever veggies you have on hand. You could even add fruits like diced mango for a sweet kick or nuts for extra crunch (and added protein and healthy fat).

Let’s Get Cooking!

Here’s how to prepare this delicious quinoa salad step by step:

1. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium pot, combine the quinoa and water (or broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa absorbs all the liquid. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 more minutes before fluffing with a fork.

   
   

2. Chop the Veggies: While the quinoa cooks, chop your bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and shred the carrots.

   
   

3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa with the chopped veggies, feta, cheese, beans, and herbs.

   
   

4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste by adding a squeeze of lemon for acidity or olive oil for richness.

   
   

5. Toss the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the mix and toss gently until everything is well combined.

   
   

6. Serve & Enjoy!: This salad can be enjoyed right away, but for the best flavor, let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavor to develop. It's perfect for meal prepping or serving at gatherings. Serve with the diced avocado.

   
   

A vibrant quinoa salad, prepped and ready to grab for lunch.

Health Benefits of Quinoa Salad

Beyond being delicious, this quinoa salad offers significant health benefits. Take a look at the nutrition each ingredient brings:

• Quinoa: Rich in protein and fiber while offering essential vitamins and minerals.

  
  

• Bell Peppers: Provide high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants, helping boost your immune system.

  
  

• Cucumber: Adds hydration and is very low in calories, making it a great weight-loss-friendly ingredient.

  
  

• Avocado: Not only is it creamy and tasty, but it’s also full of heart-healthy fats and potassium.

  
  

• Cannelloni Beans: An excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber that aids digestion.

  
  

Quinoa salad helps keep you feeling full longer. It makes a satisfying option for lunch or dinner!

Customization Options

The beauty of quinoa salad lies in its endless customization options. Want to spice things up? Add slices of jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. Craving a Mediterranean twist? Swap the cannelloni beans for black beans, or chickpeas. Exchange the feta cheese for cheddar or gouda. I actually added chopped Swiss Chard to the one pictured below.

Colorful quinoa salad beautifully presented, ready to be enjoyed.

If protein is a priority, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an additional boost.

Give This Delicious Recipe a Try!

Did you ever think quinoa salad could be this easy to put together? This versatile dish not only meets various dietary needs but can easily become a staple in your kitchen.

Whether it’s a quick lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a vibrant addition to your next gathering, this quinoa salad recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and give this delightful recipe a try today!

Remember, cooking is about experimenting, so feel free to adjust ingredients and make this salad uniquely yours!