Vegetable and Chickpea Salad with Quinoa

This Vegetable and Chickpea Salad with Quinoa is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the wholesome flavors of fresh vegetables with protein-packed chickpeas and quinoa. Perfect for a healthy lunch, it offers a refreshing crunch and a boost of energy.

Ingredients

• Quinoa - 100 grams
• Canned chickpeas - 240 grams, drained and rinsed
• Cherry tomatoes - 150 grams, halved
• Cucumber - 1 medium, diced
• Red bell pepper - 1 medium, diced
• Red onion - 50 grams, finely chopped
• Fresh parsley - 30 grams, chopped
• Lemon juice - 30 ml
• Olive oil - 15 ml
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Feta cheese - 50 grams, crumbled (optional)

Steps

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water and cook it in a pot with 200 ml of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
2. While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and chopped parsley.
3. Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the mixing bowl with the vegetables.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
5. Once the quinoa has cooled slightly, add it to the vegetable and chickpea mixture. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
6. If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 14 g
• Carbs: 52 g
• Fiber: 12 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 15 mg
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein and fiber, promoting satiety and digestive health.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables, supporting overall health.

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