Minted Quinoa Salad

Minted Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and refreshing vegan dish that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the bright, aromatic essence of fresh mint. This Lebanese-inspired salad is perfect as a light dinner or a hearty side dish, showcasing a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

• Quinoa - 150 grams
• Water - 500 ml
• Fresh mint leaves - 30 grams, chopped
• Cucumber - 100 grams, diced
• Cherry tomatoes - 100 grams, halved
• Red onion - 50 grams, finely chopped
• Lemon juice - 30 ml
• Olive oil - 20 ml
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon

Steps

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer to remove any bitterness.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 500 ml of water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa and a pinch of salt.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and has absorbed the water.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and allow it to cool.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chopped mint leaves, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
7. Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients well.
8. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbs: 45 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein and fiber, promoting satiety and digestive health.
• Packed with vitamins and antioxidants from fresh vegetables and herbs.

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