Recipe: Veggie Packed Quinoa Salad

 

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or chopped almonds (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Quinoa:

   • In a medium saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Remove from heat and let it cool.

2. Prepare the Veggies:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped mint leaves.

3. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

4. Assemble the Salad:

   • Once the quinoa has cooled, add it to the bowl of mixed veggies.

5. Add Optional Ingredients:

   • If using, add the crumbled feta cheese and toasted pine nuts or chopped almonds to the salad.

6. Pour Dressing and Toss:

   • Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Toss gently to combine and coat everything evenly with the dressing.

7. Chill (Optional):

   • For best flavor, cover the quinoa salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

8. Serve:

   • Serve the veggie-packed quinoa salad as a nutritious and satisfying meal or side dish.

9. Enjoy!

   • Enjoy this delicious and colorful quinoa salad, packed with fresh vegetables and tossed in a tangy homemade dressing. It's perfect for a light lunch, picnic, or potluck!