Vegetable and Quinoa Salad Bowl

This vibrant Vegetable and Quinoa Salad Bowl is a wholesome meal packed with colorful vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, making it a perfect choice for a nutritious dinner. The fresh flavors and crunchy textures come together beautifully, creating a satisfying dish that is both healthy and delicious.

Ingredients

• Quinoa - 1 cup
• Water - 2 cups
• Cherry tomatoes - 1 cup, halved
• Cucumber - 1 medium, diced
• Bell pepper (any color) - 1 medium, diced
• Red onion - 1/4 medium, finely chopped
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
• Fresh parsley - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Feta cheese - 1/2 cup, crumbled (optional)
• Avocado - 1 medium, diced (optional)

Steps

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer to remove any bitterness.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and water is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork.
5. While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables: chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
7. If using, gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and diced avocado.
8. Serve the salad warm or chilled, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 52 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Cholesterol: 15 mg
• Total Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

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

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