Description
A refreshing, protein-packed quinoa salad with chickpeas, fresh herbs, and a bright lemon dressing, perfect for lunches, picnics, or healthy sides.
Ingredients
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and black pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Rinse quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness.
In a medium saucepan, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing.
Prepare vegetables: dice bell pepper, finely chop red onion, and chop parsley.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Pour dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently.
Adjust seasoning to taste and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
Let quinoa cool before adding fresh vegetables to preserve crispness.
Use different herbs like cilantro or dill for variety.
Add cucumber or cherry tomatoes for extra freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch
Keywords: quinoa salad, lemon herb quinoa, chickpea quinoa salad, healthy quinoa recipe, vegan salad