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Incredible High-Protein Quinoa Salad

A vibrant and delicious quinoa salad packed with colors, flavors, and high protein that's perfect for meal prep and get-togethers.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the salad
  • 1 cup quinoa Rinse under cold water
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth Used for cooking quinoa
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Add color and flavor
  • 1 whole cucumber, diced Fresh crunch
  • 1 whole bell pepper, diced Any color bell pepper can be used
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed Adds protein
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped For a bit of bite
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped For freshness
For the dressing
  • 1 whole Juice of 1 lemon Freshly squeezed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For richness
  • to taste Salt and pepper Adjust to preference

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse quinoa under cold water to get rid of that bitter coating.
  2. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy.
Mixing
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, black beans, red onion, and parsley.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Make the dressing ahead of time for a flavor boost! The salad keeps well in the fridge for about 3-5 days.