When it comes to delicious salads, nothing beats the combination of fresh, crunchy vegetables, protein-packed quinoa, and a zesty lemon-basil dressing. Whether you are looking for a light yet satisfying meal, a side dish for a gathering, or even a filling for lunch wraps, this quinoa vegetable salad is a perfect choice. It falls under the category of quinoa recipes that are both easy to prepare and loaded with nutrients, making it an excellent option for a 21 Day Fix meal plan or anyone focusing on healthy eating.
Why You Will Love This Quinoa Salad
This quinoa salad is not just a flavorful dish but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Quinoa, often called a superfood, is packed with protein, fiber, and essential amino acids. Combined with a variety of colorful vegetables and a tangy lemon-basil dressing, it creates an irresistible balance of taste and texture. Plus, it makes for one of the best cold lunches you can prepare ahead of time and enjoy on the go.
If you’re a fan of Resep Salad, this dish will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the ingredients and how to prepare this delightful salad.
Ingredients for Quinoa Vegetable Salad with Lemon-Basil Dressing
For the Quinoa Vegetable Salad:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/3 cup feta cheese (optional)
- 1/3 cup toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for crunch
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lemon-Basil Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Cooking the Quinoa
To make the perfect base for your vegetable salad, rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water. This step removes the natural bitterness. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it cool completely.
2. Preparing the Vegetables
While the quinoa is cooling, chop all your vegetables into bite-sized pieces. The mix of red bell peppers, yellow bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes adds a vibrant color and crunch to the salad. Finely chop the red onion, parsley, and basil for added flavor and freshness.
3. Making the Lemon-Basil Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and chopped basil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. This salad with lemon dressing is what ties all the ingredients together, giving the dish its refreshing zing.
4. Assembling the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with the chopped vegetables. Pour the lemon-basil dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Adding the Final Touches
For extra flavor and texture, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and toasted almonds or sunflower seeds on top. These ingredients enhance the salad’s taste and make it even more satisfying.
How to Serve Quinoa Vegetable Salad
This quinoa salad is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. You can serve it as a refreshing and nutritious standalone meal, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. It also pairs wonderfully as a side dish with grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish, complementing the proteins with its vibrant flavors.
For those who love meal prepping, this vegetable salad is an excellent choice. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will stay fresh for up to four days, making it one of the best cold lunches for busy weekdays. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it taste even better the next day.
Another fantastic way to enjoy this dish is by using it as a filling for lunch wraps. Simply spread the salad inside a whole wheat wrap or lettuce cup, add some hummus or avocado for extra creaminess, and roll it up for a satisfying meal on the go. Whether you’re at home, work, or on a picnic, this salad offers a convenient and delicious way to stay full and energized.
If you’re serving it at a gathering, consider adding a garnish of extra fresh herbs and a sprinkle of feta cheese or toasted nuts for an impressive presentation. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this quinoa salad is sure to be a flavorful and healthy addition to your meal routine.
This quinoa salad is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a standalone meal, serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or use it as a filling for lunch wraps. If you’re meal-prepping for the week, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will stay fresh for up to four days. This makes it one of the best cold lunches you can prepare in advance.
Health Benefits of Quinoa Vegetable Salad
If you’re following a 21 Day Fix program or simply aiming for a healthier lifestyle, this salad is an ideal choice. Here’s why:
- High in Protein: Quinoa is a complete protein, making it an excellent plant-based protein source.
- Rich in Fiber: The combination of quinoa and fresh vegetables helps promote digestion and keeps you full for longer.
- Loaded with Vitamins and Antioxidants: The variety of vegetables provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that boost overall health.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil and nuts add healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health.
- Low in Calories but High in Nutrients: This vegetable salad is light yet packed with essential nutrients, making it a great option for weight management.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about this quinoa salad is that you can modify it based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some ideas:
- Vegan Option: Skip the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Nut-Free Version: Omit almonds or sunflower seeds if you have allergies.
- Extra Greens: Mix in baby spinach or arugula for additional nutrients.
Why This Salad is a Must-Try
This quinoa vegetable salad with lemon-basil dressing is a game-changer in the world of quinoa recipes. It’s fresh, flavorful, easy to make, and incredibly healthy. Whether you need a meal prep idea for cold lunches, a filling for lunch wraps, or a light yet nourishing dish, this salad checks all the boxes. Plus, its refreshing taste and crunchy texture make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
So, next time you’re looking for delicious salads to add to your weekly menu, give this recipe a try. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and it just might become your go-to vegetable salad for every occasion. Enjoy your healthy and tasty meal!
