Quinoa Salad with Lemon and Herbs

Quinoa Salad with Lemon and Herbs is a light, refreshing, and nutritious dish that’s perfect as a side or main course. This salad combines fluffy, protein-rich quinoa with fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and a touch of olive oil for a bright, vibrant flavor. Crisp vegetables like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers add texture and color, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

I love this recipe because it’s versatile, easy to prepare, and packed with nutrients. The lemony dressing complements the nutty quinoa beautifully, while fresh herbs like parsley, mint, and cilantro provide an aromatic freshness that makes every bite delightful. It’s ideal for meal prep, picnics, or a healthy lunch or dinner option.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fresh, healthy, and full of flavor. The combination of quinoa, herbs, and lemon is light yet satisfying, and it’s perfect for anyone seeking a nutritious and easy-to-make meal. It’s versatile enough to pair with grilled proteins or enjoy on its own as a wholesome salad.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s a nutrient-packed, vibrant salad that’s simple yet sophisticated. Its freshness, tangy lemon flavor, and herbaceous aroma make it a refreshing choice for warm weather or any time you want a healthy, flavorful dish. Quinoa’s protein content and fiber make it filling and energizing.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving

Course: Salad / Side Dish / Main Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean / Healthy / Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 large lemon
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts for garnish

Cooking Directions

Quinoa is cooked until fluffy, then combined with fresh vegetables and herbs. A bright lemon and olive oil dressing is tossed in, creating a flavorful, light, and refreshing salad perfect for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare Vegetables and Herbs
While quinoa is cooking, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Finely chop parsley, mint, and cilantro.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped vegetables, and herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Optional Garnish
Top with crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.

Step 6: Serve
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

How to Serve

Serve Quinoa Salad with Lemon and Herbs as a light lunch, a side for grilled meats or seafood, or as a healthy addition to a picnic or potluck. It’s also perfect for meal prep since the flavors intensify after resting in the fridge.

Recipe Tips

• Rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove its natural bitterness
• Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor
• Allow the salad to rest in the fridge for 20–30 minutes for best flavor
• Adjust lemon and olive oil quantities to taste
• Add a pinch of garlic powder or minced garlic for extra zing

Variations

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Add Kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

Protein-Packed Salad
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a complete meal.

Avocado Quinoa Salad
Include diced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.

Spicy Lemon Herb Salad
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a subtle heat.

Nutty Quinoa Salad
Sprinkle toasted almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts on top for added crunch.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer:
Not recommended, as fresh vegetables and herbs may lose texture and flavor.

Tip:
Store the dressing separately if planning to refrigerate for longer periods to keep salad fresh.

Special Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan with lid for cooking quinoa
• Cutting board and knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Spoon or spatula for tossing

Conclusion

Quinoa Salad with Lemon and Herbs is a vibrant, healthy, and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. Its combination of fluffy quinoa, crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon makes it light yet satisfying. Easy to prepare, nutritious, and versatile, this salad is ideal for lunches, dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. With endless variations, it’s a must-try for anyone seeking a healthy, flavorful, and colorful dish

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Quinoa Salad with Lemon and Herbs

Author: Anna Williams Courses: Salads

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 25 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 250 calories per serving

Description

Quinoa Salad with Lemon and Herbs is a light, refreshing, and nutritious dish that’s perfect as a side or main course. This salad combines fluffy, protein-rich quinoa with fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and a touch of olive oil for a bright, vibrant flavor. Crisp vegetables like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers add texture and color, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 large lemon
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa : In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool slightly.
2. Prepare Vegetables and Herbs : While quinoa is cooking, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Finely chop parsley, mint, and cilantro.
3. Make the Dressing : In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Combine Salad : In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped vegetables, and herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. Optional Garnish : Top with crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.
6. Serve : Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Keywords: Quinoa Salad with Lemon and Herbs