High-Protein Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dressing
A light and nutritious salad packed with protein from quinoa and chickpeas, complemented by a zesty lemon dressing.
Equipment
- medium saucepan
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl for dressing
- whisk
- knife
- cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 cup Quinoa Rinsed to remove any bitterness.
- 2 cups Water or vegetable broth To cook the quinoa and add flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) Chickpeas Drained and rinsed for added protein and fiber.
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Halved for a burst of sweetness.
- 1 Cucumber Diced for a refreshing crunch.
- 1 Bell pepper Diced for color and flavor.
- 1/4 Red onion Finely chopped for a hint of sharpness.
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley Chopped for a fresh, herbal note.
- 1/4 cup Feta cheese Crumbled (optional) for a creamy texture.
- 1/4 cup Olive oil A healthy fat that adds richness.
- 1 lemon Lemon juice Freshly squeezed for a bright flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Adds a tangy kick.
- 1 teaspoon Honey or maple syrup For a touch of sweetness.
- Salt and pepper To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool.
- While the quinoa cools, wash and prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled quinoa, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley. If using, add feta cheese.
- Pour the lemon dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Serve as a light lunch, side dish, or healthy snack.
Notes
This salad is versatile; feel free to add grilled chicken, tofu, or seasonal vegetables to customize it to your taste.