Easy Quinoa Salad Lunch

Name: Easy Quinoa Salad Lunch
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups water; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

This Easy Quinoa Salad Lunch is a refreshing and nutritious meal, perfect for busy days. Packed with protein and fiber, it's not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make!

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:10:17.539Z

This quinoa salad is not just a meal, it's a celebration of fresh ingredients! Combining colorful vegetables with protein-packed quinoa, this dish is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and filling without being heavy
Perfect for meal prep or quick lunches
Bright, fresh flavors that will invigorate your taste buds

      

The Benefits of Quinoa

Quinoa is often hailed as a superfood, and for good reason. This ancient grain is not only rich in protein but also contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. Unlike many other grains, quinoa is gluten-free, which makes it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions. Incorporating quinoa into your meals can help support muscle repair, boost metabolism, and promote overall health.

In addition to its protein content, quinoa is also packed with fiber. Fiber plays a crucial role in digestive health, helping to keep you feeling full longer and supporting regular bowel movements. This makes quinoa a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or improve their digestive system.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this Easy Quinoa Salad is its versatility for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out for quick and convenient lunches. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it even tastier after a day in the fridge. Plus, the ingredients are all fresh and easy to find, allowing you to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables or proteins.

By preparing your meals in advance, you can save time during your busy workweek and avoid the temptation of unhealthy takeout options. This salad can be stored in airtight containers and will stay fresh for up to five days in the refrigerator, ensuring you have a nutritious meal ready at your fingertips.

Serving Suggestions

While this salad is delicious on its own, there are numerous ways to elevate your meal. Consider pairing it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein. You can also serve it alongside your favorite protein for a more substantial dinner. If you're looking for a side dish, this quinoa salad pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a light soup, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding a sprinkle of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add an exciting kick. Additionally, try incorporating seasonal ingredients such as roasted sweet potatoes in the fall or fresh berries in the summer for a delightful twist. This salad is truly adaptable to any season or occasion.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper, to taste

Mix and match your favorite vegetables for a personalized touch!

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.

Combine the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.

Serve

Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Your salad is ready to be enjoyed!

Storage Tips

To ensure your Easy Quinoa Salad stays fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the crispness of the vegetables and the overall flavor of the salad. It’s best to add dressing just before serving, as this will prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy and keep the salad at its best texture.

If you have leftovers, consider adding them to wraps or grain bowls. This can help avoid waste and give you a new tasty meal option without additional preparation.

Customizing Your Salad

Feel free to get creative with your quinoa salad by adding or substituting ingredients based on your preferences. Some great additions include avocado for creaminess, olives for a briny kick, or even nuts and seeds for extra crunch. You can also swap out the feta cheese for a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version.

Herbs play a significant role in enhancing the flavors of your salad. Consider adding fresh basil, cilantro, or mint to bring a unique taste profile. Don't hesitate to experiment with different dressings as well; a balsamic vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing can provide a delightful change.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made 1-2 days in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

→ Is quinoa gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free and a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you prefer, you can leave out the feta or substitute it with avocado for a creamier texture.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add vegetables like spinach, kale, or even grilled zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.