Refreshing Quinoa Salad for a Nutritious Meal

Quinoa, a nutrient-rich seed, serves as an excellent base for a variety of salads. Paired with an assortment of fresh vegetables and a zesty homemade vinaigrette, this Quinoa Salad is not only satisfying and flavorful but also incredibly healthy. It’s the perfect choice for a light lunch or as a complementary side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, uncooked
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• Avocado, sliced (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add quinoa and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
5. If desired, top the salad with crumbled feta cheese and slices of avocado for extra creaminess and flavor.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Enjoy your refreshing Quinoa Salad as a stand-alone meal or pair it with grilled chicken or fish for added protein. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables and toppings, making it a great option for meal prepping or for serving at gatherings.