American Quinoa Salad Recipe

American Quinoa salad recipe! Perfect for potlucks, cookouts, and picnics, this dish shines as both a satisfying side and a hearty main course. Plus, its impressive staying power makes it ideal for meal prep – enjoy healthy, delicious lunches all week long. Whether you’re entertaining a crowd or planning ahead, this quinoa salad is a fresh and flavorful winner.”

Or, if you’d like a slightly different tone:

“Bring the Mediterranean to your table with this mouthwatering quinoa salad! This versatile recipe impresses as a side dish or standalone main course, and its make-ahead convenience makes it perfect for meal prep. Enjoy fresh, healthy lunches all week or wow your guests at the next potluck, cookout, or picnic

Ingredients of American Quinoa Salad:

  • 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
  •  2 cups water
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced cucumber
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped black olives
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or cilantro) for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook quinoa in water until tender. Drain excess water.
2. In a separate bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumber, onion, bell pepper, and olives.
3. Mix cooked quinoa with the vegetable mixture.
4. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour dressing over quinoa mixture.
5. Add feta cheese (if using).
6. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Variations:

– Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Add artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.
– Mexican Quinoa Salad: Add black beans, diced tomatoes, avocado, and salsa.
– Indian Quinoa Salad: Add chopped cilantro, cucumber raita, and chaat masala.

Tips:

– Rinse quinoa before cooking.
– Dry vegetables before mixing.
– Refrigerate quinoa salad before serving.

 

Benefits by American Quinoa Salad:

1. High protein and fiber content
2. Gluten-free and vegan-friendly
3. Rich in antioxidants and minerals
4. Supports heart health and digestion

American Quinoa Salad perfect for lunch, picnics, road trips and plane rides etc.
Bring this allergy-friendly salad along to your next potluck—it’s vegan/dairy free, gluten free, and nut free, so everyone can enjoy it at your next potluck

 

 

Quinoa Salad Recipe

This Quinoa salad recipe is light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients. Everyone loves this healthy quinoa salad made with quinoa, red bell pepper, cucumber, parsley and lemon.
It’s perfect for a quick lunch, side dish, or even a potluck!

Quinoa Salad Recipe Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • 1 avocado, diced (optional)

 

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

 

Quinoa Salad Recipe Instructions:

Cook the quinoa:

In a medium pot, combine the rinsed quinoa and water (or vegetable broth) and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.

Prep the vegetables:

While the quinoa cools, chop the cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and mint.

Make the dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic, salt, and pepper.

Combine everything:

Once the quinoa is cool, transfer it to a large salad bowl. Add the chopped vegetables and herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together.

Add feta and avocado:

If you’re using feta cheese and avocado, add them in at the end and gently toss again.

Tips:

Variations: Add other veggies like shredded carrots, radishes, or even roasted sweet potatoes for more texture.
Protein Boost: Toss in some chickpeas or grilled chicken for a more filling meal.
Storage: This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, though it’s best to add the avocado and dressing just before serving.

Enjoy your fresh and healthy quinoa salad!

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