Quinoa Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quinoa Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side. It’s loaded with colorful vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and a zesty dressing that ties everything together. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal prep option or a potluck favorite, this salad offers delicious flavor and satisfying texture in every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

quinoacucumbercherry tomatoesred onionbell pepperfresh parsley or cilantrofeta cheese (optional)olive oillemon juicegarlicsaltblack pepper

directions

Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural bitterness.

In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Let it cool.

Chop the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper into small, bite-sized pieces.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the chopped vegetables and herbs.

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.

If using, crumble feta cheese on top and gently mix in.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Use avocado for added creaminess and healthy fats.

Add chickpeas or black beans for extra protein.

Swap lemon juice for red wine vinegar for a tangy twist.

Incorporate leafy greens like spinach or arugula for a heartier salad.

Try a Mediterranean version with olives and sun-dried tomatoes.

storage/reheating

Store Quinoa Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
It’s best served cold or at room temperature—no reheating required.
For longer storage, keep the dressing separate and mix before serving.

FAQs

Can I use red or black quinoa?

Yes, any variety of quinoa works well for this salad. Red and black quinoa have a slightly nuttier flavor and firmer texture.

Is this salad vegan?

It is vegan if you omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.

What protein can I add?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great additions if you want to make it more filling.

Can I freeze quinoa salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the vegetables will change once thawed.

How do I keep the veggies from getting soggy?

Make sure the quinoa is fully cooled and drain any excess liquid from the veggies before mixing.

What other dressings can I use?

Try balsamic vinaigrette, tahini dressing, or a yogurt-based sauce for different flavor profiles.

Conclusion

Quinoa Salad is a versatile and wholesome recipe that delivers on taste, nutrition, and convenience. With endless customization options and a bright, refreshing flavor, it’s a go-to dish for healthy eating and effortless meals. Perfect for busy days or casual gatherings, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

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