Spiced Quinoa Salad

This Spiced Quinoa Salad is a colorful and nutritious dish inspired by traditional Lebanese flavors. Packed with fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and protein-rich quinoa, it's a perfect healthy supper option.

Ingredients

• Quinoa - 150 grams
• Water - 400 ml
• Cherry tomatoes - 100 grams, halved
• Cucumber - 1 medium, diced
• Red bell pepper - 1 medium, diced
• Red onion - 50 grams, finely chopped
• Fresh parsley - 30 grams, chopped
• Fresh mint - 15 grams, chopped
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
• Ground cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Ground coriander - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Feta cheese - 50 grams, crumbled (optional)

Steps

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove its bitter coating.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
3. Remove the quinoa from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff it with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped mint.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper.
6. Add the cooled quinoa to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over it. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
7. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 45 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 15 mg
• Total Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

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

Tags