A vibrant and healthy Quinoa Chickpea Salad with a zesty Lemon Vinaigrette. This salad is packed with protein and flavor, making it a perfect light lunch or side dish.
Author:Ben Androshov
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Salad
Method:No-Cook Salad Assembly
Cuisine:Mediterranean-inspired
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, parsley, and mint.
Dress the salad: Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve: Serve immediately or chill for later.
Notes
For added flavor, you can add other vegetables like cucumber or cherry tomatoes.
To make this salad more substantial, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
The vinaigrette can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.