This quinoa salad is one of my go-to recipes when I want something colorful, healthy, and filling. It’s packed with a mix of crunchy veggies like cucumber, bok choy(optional), bell peppers, French beans, Zucchini plus chickpeas or kabuki chain for that extra protein punch. I love tossing in some nuts and dried raisins (you can use cranberries or dried blueberries too!), which add a bit of sweetness and crunch. Fresh herbs like mint and coriander make it even better. The dressing is super simple—just apple cider vinegar, mustard, honey(optional) , lemon and olive oil. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a light, refreshing meal!
Here’s how to make a single serving of this refreshing quinoa salad:
You Will Need (for 1 serving):
– 1/3 cup dried quinoa
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 medium cucumber, diced
– 1/4 medium bell pepper, chopped
– 1/2 baby bok choy, chopped (optional)
– 1/4 cup additional grated or chopped veggies (optional)
– 2 tablespoons nuts and seeds (like walnuts, Almond, or Mixed seeds and hemp seeds)
– 1 tablespoon dried fruit (raisins or cranberries)
– 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (like coriander, mint, or garlic)
For the Dressing:
– 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon mustard sauce(optional)
– A drizzle of honey (about 1 teaspoon) (optional)
– Pinch of salt and pepper
– Lemon juice (optional)
Directions:
Cook Quinoa:
1. Rinse 1/3 cup quinoa in a fine mesh strainer or bowl, swirling it around and draining thoroughly.
2. Add rinsed quinoa to a small saucepan with 2/3 cup water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes until all the water is absorbed.
3. Remove from heat, cover, and let it rest for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let it cool slightly.
Make the Salad:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, mustard, honey (optional), lemon(optional) salt, and pepper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, bok choy, zucchini, carrot,purple cabbage, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and herbs.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Taste and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
Enjoy your fresh and healthy quinoa salad!
