Perfectly Balanced Quinoa Salad Recipe

Quinoa salad is a delightful way to enjoy this nutrient-rich grain in a refreshing and light dish. This recipe offers a balanced mix of flavors with minimal cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknight meals or picnic lunches.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Number of Servings: 6

Preparation Steps:

Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water for about a minute. This step is crucial as it helps to remove any saponins, which are naturally occurring compounds that can give an unpleasing bitter taste.

In a medium-sized pot, combine the quinoa and water in a 1:2 ratio. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat immediately to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Simmer gently for about 15 minutes or until all of the liquid has been absorbed.

Remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. Then fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains and allow any excess steam to escape. Let it cool down completely before proceeding.

Mixing Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. Add in the cooked quinoa along with chopped red onion, cucumber, and parsley. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

To enhance flavor further, consider adding some dried fruits like cranberries or raisins if desired. You could also sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese over the top before serving for an extra burst of saltiness.

Serving Suggestions:

• This quinoa salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken breast or salmon fillets, providing a hearty main course meal.
• Use it as a base for your favorite cold sandwich, adding slices of avocado and sliced radishes to create a refreshing wrap.
• Pack this in individual containers along with some fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and olives for an easy-to-carry lunch option at work or school.

Tips & Variations:

For those looking to experiment, you might try substituting the cucumber with bell peppers or zucchini for added crunch. Adding a handful of sunflower seeds adds protein and boosts the nutritional value significantly.

If you prefer less acidity in your dish, reduce the amount of lemon juice slightly while increasing the olive oil content instead. This will create a milder flavor profile that some people may find more appealing.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

1. Total Calories: Approximately 450 calories per serving
2. Fat Content: Around 18 grams of fat, mostly coming from healthy fats like those found in olive oil and nuts.
3. Protein Content: About 7 grams of protein
4. Fiber Content: Over 2 grams of fiber which aids digestion and supports a healthy gut microbiome.

In conclusion, quinoa salad is not only easy to make but also incredibly nutritious. Its versatility allows for endless possibilities when it comes to customization according to personal tastes preferences and dietary restrictions. Whether you're seeking something light yet filling or just want to switch up your usual meal routine, this dish has got you covered!