Delicious Quinoa Salad Recipe: A Healthy Side Dish for Your Summer Meals

Quinoa salad has become a popular choice among health-conscious individuals seeking a nutritious side dish or light meal. This versatile grain not only provides protein but also fiber, vitamins, and minerals in each bite. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to make a simple yet delicious quinoa salad that complements various main dishes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of cooked quinoa
• 2 cups of mixed vegetables such as cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers (chopped)
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup of fresh parsley, roughly chopped
• Juice from 1 lime
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Paprika for garnish (optional)

Cooking Time: About 20 minutes

Number of Servings: 4

Step-by-Step Guide to Make a Quinoa Salad

Preparation: Start by cooking your quinoa according to the package instructions. Once done, let it cool in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare all your ingredients. Chop the vegetables into small pieces and finely chop the onion. Set aside until you’re ready to mix everything together.

Mixing:

In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with the chopped vegetables and red onion. Add in the fresh parsley for added color and flavor. Drizzle the lime juice over this mixture followed by olive oil.

Season it all with salt to taste. Use your hands or a spoon to toss everything together until well combined.

Garnishing:

If desired, sprinkle some paprika on top of the salad before serving for an extra pop of color and warmth. Serve chilled immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days.

Storage Tips: Always remember to keep any leftover quinoa salad in a tightly sealed container inside your refrigerator. It stays fresh well beyond just one day, making it ideal for lunch boxes or as part of a picnic spread later on in the week.

Tips & Variations

• Protein Boost: Toss in some grilled chicken strips or crumbled feta cheese for added protein and creaminess.
• Fresh Herbs: Replace parsley with other herbs like mint, cilantro, or basil depending on your preference.
• Vegetables: Feel free to substitute the vegetables based upon what’s available locally. Try adding corn kernels for sweetness or avocado slices for creaminess and texture.

Conclusion

A quinoa salad is an easy-to-make, satisfying side dish perfect for summer gatherings. Not only does it taste great, but it's also packed full of beneficial nutrients that contribute to overall health. Whether you’re looking forward to enjoying this dish with friends and family or serving it solo as part of your daily routine, there’s no wrong way to approach making a quinoa salad.

By following these simple steps, you can easily prepare yourself a hearty, wholesome meal in under half an hour. Try experimenting with different ingredients to find what works best for you. Happy cooking!