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Lemon Quinoa Salad with Herbs

A vibrant and zesty salad featuring quinoa, fresh herbs, and a tangy lemon dressing, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Healthy, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Vegan
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Quinoa Base
  • 1 cup quinoa A fantastic gluten-free grain loaded with protein and fiber.
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or water Broth gives a richer flavor.
Dressing
  • 1 large lemon Juicy and zesty, the star of our dressing.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds richness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt To enhance all the flavors.
Salad Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped Bright and herbaceous.
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped Refreshing and cool.
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced Adds crunch.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved For sweetness.
Optional Add-ins
  • Feta cheese or chickpeas For extra protein.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve to remove the natural coating that can lend a bitter taste.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, until fluffy.
Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of the lemon, olive oil, and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Combining Ingredients
  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, parsley, mint, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
  2. Pour the lemon dressing over the ingredients and gently toss until well coated.
Serving
  1. Add feta cheese or chickpeas if desired, and toss gently again. Serve in individual bowls or on a large platter.

Notes

Herb Variations: Try swapping in cilantro or basil for different flavors. Add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Seasonal touches like asparagus in spring or roasted pumpkin in fall enhance the dish.