This Lemon and Herb Quinoa Salad is a vibrant, fresh meal packed with protein from chickpeas. Quick to make and perfect for lunch, dinner, or a side dish.
Lemon and Herb Quinoa Salad Recipe: A Fresh and Flavorful Meal
If you’re looking for a healthy, refreshing, and easy-to-make salad that’s packed with flavour, this Lemon and Herb Quinoa Salad is the perfect choice. Full of vibrant veggies, protein-rich chickpeas, and a tangy lemon-lime dressing, this salad makes an excellent addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick lunch or side dish, this simple quinoa salad has you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon and Herb Quinoa Salad
This Lemon and Herb Quinoa Salad is the ideal balance of lightness and heartiness. Quinoa provides a great plant-based protein source, while chickpeas bring extra fiber and texture. Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro add brightness, and the lemon-lime dressing gives the salad a zesty kick. It’s not only nutritious, but it’s also versatile. You can serve it as a standalone dish or pair it with your favourite protein for a complete meal.
Preparing Lemon and Herb Quinoa Salad
Ingredients for Lemon and Herb Quinoa Salad
- ½ cup uncooked quinoa – A nutrient-dense whole grain rich in protein.
- ½ red bell pepper – For crunch and a touch of sweetness.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley – A burst of freshness and flavour.
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro – Adds a citrusy, herbaceous note.
- 6 grape tomatoes – Sweet and juicy, these tomatoes brighten the dish.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice – For a tangy, refreshing flavour.
- 2 tsp lime juice – Adds a citrusy punch.
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided) – For cooking and the dressing.
- 1/8 tsp salt – Enhances the flavours of the dish.
- Pinch of ground black pepper – For a slight kick.
- 1 can chickpeas – Adds fiber and plant-based protein.
- 1 tbsp G&K All-Purpose Spice – A flavourful seasoning blend to elevate the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
- Add the quinoa to a microwave-safe dish with 1 cup of water and a pinch of salt. Microwave on 50% power for 20 minutes, or alternatively, cook it on the stovetop according to package instructions. Once done, set it aside to cool for about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs
- While the quinoa cooks, wash and finely dice the red bell pepper, grape tomatoes, and fresh herbs (parsley and cilantro). Set these aside for later.
Step 3: Cook the Chickpeas
- In a medium pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Open the can of chickpeas, drain, and rinse them with cold water. Add them to the pan and toss them in the heated oil.
Step 4: Season the Chickpeas
- Add half of the salt and 1 tablespoon of G&K All-Purpose Spice to the chickpeas. Toss well until the chickpeas are evenly coated in the spices. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chickpeas are golden and slightly crispy.
Step 5: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining tablespoon of olive oil with the lemon juice and lime juice. Stir to combine and set aside.
Step 6: Assemble the Salad
- Once the quinoa is cooked and slightly cooled, transfer it to a large bowl. Add the diced red bell pepper, grape tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Toss everything together.
Step 7: Add the Chickpeas and Dressing
- Add the crispy chickpeas to the quinoa mixture, followed by the prepared lemon-lime dressing. Stir gently to combine. Season with the remaining salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
- This Lemon and Herb Quinoa Salad can be served on its own as a light meal, paired with crackers for extra crunch, or as a refreshing side dish to your favourite protein.
Tips for Customizing Your Lemon and Herb Quinoa Salad
- Add extra veggies: Feel free to include cucumber, avocado, or carrots for more texture and flavour.
- Swap the herbs: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, swap it for more parsley or even mint for a different twist.
- Make it spicier: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the dressing if you like a little heat.
Health Benefits of This Lemon and Herb Quinoa Salad
Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. Chickpeas are rich in fiber and protein, which can help with digestion and keeping you feeling full longer. The fresh veggies and herbs provide a boost of vitamins and antioxidants, while the lemon and lime juice add vitamin C to help support your immune system. Overall, this salad is not only delicious but also a nutritional powerhouse.
Conclusion
This Lemon and Herb Quinoa Salad is the perfect blend of fresh flavours and satisfying ingredients. It’s easy to make, full of healthy nutrients, and ideal for meal prep or a quick lunch or dinner. Whether you’re serving it on its own or as a side dish, this quinoa salad will quickly become a favourite in your recipe collection. Give it a try today, and enjoy a fresh, light meal that’s bursting with flavour!
Are you looking for dinner ideas? Check out our recipes:
Zesty Lemon and Herb Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas
Equipment
- Corning ware
- Knife
- Juicer (optional)
- Medium pan
Ingredients
- ½ cup quinoa uncooked
- ½ red bell pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp cilantro
- 6 grape tomatoes
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil divided
- ⅛ tsp salt
- Pinch of ground black pepper
- 1 can chickpeas
- 1 tbsp G&K All-Purpose Spice
Instructions
- Add the quinoa to a microwave-safe dish with 1 cup of water and a pinch of salt. Cook in the microwave for 20 minutes on 50% power. Alternatively, cook on the stovetop according to the package instructions.½ cup quinoa
- While the quinoa is cooking prep all of the other ingredients, wash and finely dice the red pepper, tomatoes and herbs.½ red bell pepper, 2 tbsp fresh parsley, 2 tbsp cilantro, 6 grape tomatoes
- Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan and heat up on medium-high heat.2 tbsp olive oil
- While the oil heats up, open and drain the chickpeas and rinse them with cold water. Add them to the pan and toss in the oil.1 can chickpeas
- Next, add half the salt and 1 tablespoon of G&K All-purpose spice. Toss well until all the chickpeas are coated. Cook for 5 minutes tossing halfway.1 tbsp G&K All-Purpose Spice
- While the chickpeas cook you can make the dressing in a small bowl by combining 1 tablespoon oil and the lemon and lime juices.2 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tsp lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/8 tsp salt, Pinch of ground black pepper
- Once the quinoa is cooked carefully move it to a large bowl and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then add all of the remaining ingredients and stir well. Add remaining salt and pepper to taste.1/8 tsp salt, Pinch of ground black pepper
- Serve on its own, with crackers or as a side to your favourite protein.
