Quinoa Salad

This vibrant Dairy-Free Moroccan Quinoa Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, featuring fluffy quinoa, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices. It's a refreshing and nutritious dish perfect for a light meal or side.

Ingredients

• Quinoa - 150 grams
• Water - 400 ml
• Cherry tomatoes - 150 grams, halved
• Cucumber - 100 grams, diced
• Red bell pepper - 100 grams, diced
• Red onion - 50 grams, finely chopped
• Fresh parsley - 30 grams, chopped
• Fresh mint - 15 grams, chopped
• Olive oil - 30 ml
• Lemon juice - 20 ml
• Ground cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon

Steps

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer to remove the 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 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and water is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and let the quinoa sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
5. While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables: chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion, and place them in a large mixing bowl.
6. Add the chopped parsley and mint to the vegetable mixture.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
8. Once the quinoa has cooled slightly, add it to the mixing bowl with the vegetables.
9. Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
10. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbs: 45 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein and fiber, promoting satiety and digestive health.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables, enhancing overall nutrition.

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