Vegetable and Quinoa Salad with Lentils and Spinach and Chickpeas and Lentils and Spinach and Lentils

This vibrant Vegetable and Quinoa Salad is a nutritious blend of lentils, spinach, and chickpeas, perfect for a healthy midnight snack. Packed with protein and fiber, it's both satisfying and refreshing.

Ingredients

• Quinoa - 1 cup
• Lentils (cooked) - 1/2 cup
• Chickpeas (cooked) - 1/2 cup
• Fresh spinach - 2 cups, chopped
• Cherry tomatoes - 1 cup, halved
• Cucumber - 1 medium, diced
• Red bell pepper - 1/2, diced
• Red onion - 1/4, finely chopped
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 1 clove, minced
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped

Steps

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water and cook it according to package instructions, typically simmering in 2 cups of water for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, chickpeas, chopped spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
4. Once the quinoa is cooked, let it cool for a few minutes, then add it to the vegetable mixture.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently until well combined.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 50 g
• Fiber: 15 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

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

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