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

This vibrant Vegetable and Quinoa Salad is a delightful mix of protein-rich ingredients, perfect for a healthy midnight snack. Loaded with lentils, spinach, and chickpeas, it's both filling and nutritious.

Ingredients

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

Steps

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water and drain.
2. In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.
3. While the quinoa is cooking, in a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, chickpeas, spinach, bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
5. Once the quinoa is done, let it cool for a few minutes, then add it to the mixing bowl with the vegetables and legumes.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 55 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: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein and fiber, promoting fullness and digestive health.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals from various vegetables and legumes.

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