Make-Ahead Quinoa Salad

Make-Ahead Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a vibrant, refreshing dish perfect for anyone seeking a light yet nourishing meal. Fluffy quinoa pairs beautifully with crisp vegetables and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This salad is ideal for meal prep, picnics, or a quick lunch that satisfies both palate and nutrition needs.

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This salad not only bursts with color but also offers a satisfying mix of textures: tender quinoa, crunchy vegetables, and a silky vinaigrette. The fresh herbs provide a bright finishing touch that invigorates the dish perfectly.

Ingredients

• Grains
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 tsp salt
• Vegetables & Herbs
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (optional)
• Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Optional Additions
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup toasted sunflower seeds or slivered almonds

Instructions

1. Cook the quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa, water, and 1/2 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool to room temperature.

2. Prepare the vegetables and herbs

Place cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and mint (if using) in a large bowl.

3. Make the lemon vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

4. Combine salad

Add the cooled quinoa to the bowl of vegetables. Pour over the lemon vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.

5. Add optional ingredients

If desired, fold in crumbled feta and seeds or almonds for added flavor and texture.

6. Chill and serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Toss again before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Ensure the quinoa is fully cooled before mixing with the vegetables and vinaigrette to maintain a fresh texture. Rinsing quinoa thoroughly with a fine-mesh sieve helps remove its natural bitterness. Refrigerate the salad well-covered to enhance flavor melding and keep the ingredients crisp.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan variation, omit the feta cheese and substitute honey with maple syrup. Add chickpeas for extra protein or grilled chicken if you prefer a non-vegetarian option. Toasted nuts or seeds can be swapped to suit dietary restrictions or taste preferences.

Serviervorschläge

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This quinoa salad shines as a light lunch or a picnic staple. It pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to complement its fresh citrus notes. Serve chilled with crusty bread or alongside your favorite grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.

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With its ease and versatility, Make-Ahead Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a reliable, flavorful addition to your recipe rotation. Its fresh ingredients and simple preparation make it a standout choice whether you're packing a lunchbox or planning a leisurely picnic.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I cook quinoa perfectly for this salad?

Rinse quinoa well, then simmer it in salted water for about 15 minutes until all water is absorbed. Let it stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and cool completely.

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, chilling the salad for at least an hour helps flavors meld beautifully. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese for a vegan option?

Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and flavor.

→ Which herbs work best in this salad?

Fresh parsley and mint provide bright, refreshing notes that complement the lemon vinaigrette perfectly.

→ How should I store leftovers to keep them fresh?

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Toss gently before serving to redistribute the dressing.