Looking for a refreshing and nutritious dish that will brighten up your meal? Look no further than this vibrant Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad! Bursting with Mediterranean flavors and packed with wholesome ingredients, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Perfect as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a picnic delight, it’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Ready to impress your taste buds and your guests? Dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Quinoa, rinsed and drained
- Water
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Salt
- Pepper
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, diced
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the quinoa under cold running water in a fine-mesh strainer. This helps to remove any bitterness from the quinoa's natural coating, called saponin.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Use a ratio of 1 cup of quinoa to 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once the water reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- After the quinoa has rested, fluff it with a fork and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Once the quinoa has cooled, add the chopped fresh parsley, fresh dill, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced cucumber to the bowl.
- Pour the lemon-olive oil dressing over the quinoa salad mixture and toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed, and give the salad another gentle toss.
- Let the salad sit for about 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve the Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Tips
- Rinse the Quinoa: Always rinse your quinoa under cold water before cooking to remove its natural coating, saponin, which can impart a bitter taste.
- Water Ratio: Stick to the 1:2 quinoa-to-water ratio for perfectly fluffy quinoa. Adjusting this can lead to either mushy or undercooked grains.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the quinoa sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. This step helps to ensure that all the water is absorbed and the quinoa becomes light and fluffy.
- Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 5-10 minutes after mixing in the dressing. This allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or avocado, to make this salad your own.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Use fresh parsley and dill for the best flavor. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh herbs elevate the dish.
- Serve It Your Way: This salad can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 305kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 7g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
