This Refreshing Vegan Quinoa Salad is a delightful combination of fluffy quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing. It’s perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a main course. Packed with protein and bursting with flavor, this salad is as healthy as it is delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this vibrant dish!
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1 cup of quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups of water
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup of red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup of fresh mint, chopped
- 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
For the Lemon Dressing:
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon of maple syrup or agave nectar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
- In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed.
- Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked and cooled quinoa, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, chopped parsley, chopped mint, and chickpeas.
- Pour the lemon dressing over the salad and toss well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Gently fold in the diced avocado if using.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing, zesty flavors of this quinoa salad.
Tips and Variations:
- Extra Crunch: Add some toasted nuts or seeds, such as almonds or sunflower seeds, for added texture and flavor.
- Different Veggies: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand, such as radishes, carrots, or zucchini.
- Protein Boost: Add some marinated tofu or tempeh for extra protein.
This Refreshing Vegan Quinoa Salad is a versatile and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any meal. Its bright, fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients make it a standout choice for a healthy and satisfying meal. Enjoy this delightful salad as a refreshing addition to your vegan recipe collection. Happy cooking!
