Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette

Elevate your lunch or dinner with this refreshing Quinoa Salad featuring a zesty Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette. Packed with protein, fiber, and a medley of colorful vegetables, this wholesome salad is not only a delight for your taste buds but also a nourishing addition to your diet. The combination of fluffy quinoa, crisp vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Customize it with your favorite herbs and enjoy a satisfying, nutrient-rich meal.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is cooked and water is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and feta cheese (if using).
3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey or maple syrup (if using), dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the quinoa salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring the salad is well-coated with the dressing.
5. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
6. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the salad before serving.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Serve chilled and enjoy the vibrant flavors and nourishing goodness of this Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette!

Nutrition Facts (approximate values):

• Calories: 350 Kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 45g (Sugar: 4g)
• Fiber: 7g
• Fat: 16g (Saturated: 3g, Unsaturated: 13g)

Indulge in this Quinoa Salad as a satisfying meal that combines taste and nutrition in every bite.