Crispy Vegetable and Quinoa Salad with Feta

This Crispy Vegetable and Quinoa Salad with Feta is a vibrant, nutritious dish perfect for a healthy midnight snack. Packed with colorful veggies and protein-rich quinoa, it's both satisfying and refreshing.

Ingredients

• Quinoa - 100 grams
• Water - 250 ml
• Cherry tomatoes - 150 grams, halved
• Cucumber - 100 grams, diced
• Bell pepper (any color) - 100 grams, diced
• Red onion - 50 grams, finely chopped
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Feta cheese - 75 grams, crumbled
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Panko breadcrumbs - 30 grams

Steps

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water and then combine it with 250 ml of water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed.
2. While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to create a dressing.
4. Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it cool for a few minutes before adding it to the bowl of vegetables.
5. Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetables, then add the crumbled feta and chopped parsley. Gently toss to combine.
6. In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the panko breadcrumbs until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
7. Serve the salad topped with the crispy panko breadcrumbs for added texture.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 40 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 550 mg
• Cholesterol: 20 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein from quinoa, promoting muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in vitamins and antioxidants from fresh vegetables, supporting overall health.

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