Zesty Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad – A Fresh Delight!

Name: Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups water; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ small red onion, finely diced; ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 large lemon; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

May 29, 2025

Updated:

May 29, 2025

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When it comes to fresh, vibrant meals that make your taste buds dance, nothing beats a Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad. Picture this: fluffy quinoa mingling with bright, zesty lemon and a medley of crunchy veggies. Each bite bursts with flavor and sunshine, making you feel like you’re lounging on a tropical beach instead of stuck in your kitchen. It’s the kind of salad that makes you want to put on your best sun hat, grab a refreshing drink, and pretend you’re on vacation—even if you’re just at home in sweatpants.

This Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad isn’t just delicious; it’s also a memory maker. I’ll never forget the first time I served this dish at a family picnic. My aunt, who usually steers clear of anything green (bless her heart), took one bite and exclaimed it was “the best thing since sliced bread.” That’s high praise from her! This salad is perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or even as a light dinner when you want to impress but have zero energy to cook. Trust me; you’re going to want to dive into this flavor explosion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad is quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners hassle-free
The vibrant flavors will transport you straight to summer with each bite
Its colorful presentation makes it an eye-catching addition to any table
Versatile enough for lunch or dinner, it’s great for meal prep throughout the week

I remember my friend trying this salad for the first time; she couldn’t stop raving about how fresh and delightful it was.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Quinoa: A gluten-free grain packed with protein; rinse before cooking for fluffier results.
Fresh Parsley: Brightens the salad; choose flat-leaf parsley for more flavor.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best; it gives the salad that zesty kick we all love.
Cucumber: Adds crunch; opt for English cucumbers for fewer seeds.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy; slice them in half for added texture.
Red Onion: Use sparingly for flavor without overpowering other ingredients.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall taste.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors in the salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Cook the Quinoa: Start by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water until it runs clear. In a pot, combine the washed quinoa with 2 cups of water and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer until all water is absorbed—about 15 minutes.

Prep Your Veggies: While your quinoa cooks, chop up one cucumber into small cubes and slice 1 cup of cherry tomatoes in half. Dice half a small red onion finely; this adds flavor without overwhelming.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil and the juice from one large lemon. Season with salt and pepper to taste—this will be your flavor bomb!

Toss Everything Together: Once your quinoa has cooled slightly after cooking (about 10 minutes), fluff it with a fork. In a large mixing bowl, combine quinoa with chopped veggies and dressing. Stir gently until everything is well coated.

Add Fresh Herbs: Finally, chop about half a cup of fresh parsley and sprinkle it over your salad. Give everything one last gentle toss to keep those bright colors intact!

With these steps complete, you’ve created a delightful Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad that not only looks good but tastes fantastic! Enjoy it right away or let it chill for an hour—both options are equally delicious!

You Must Know

This vibrant Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad not only delights the taste buds but also serves as a light yet filling meal
Packed with nutrients, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner
The fresh aromas and crunchy textures make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing the quinoa to remove bitterness, then cook it in vegetable broth for extra flavor. Mix in your veggies while the quinoa cools to create a harmonious blend of flavors.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your favorites, or toss in some nuts for crunch. Different herbs can also elevate your salad; try basil or cilantro for a fresh twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. If you reheat, add a splash of olive oil to maintain moisture and freshness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use low-sodium vegetable broth instead of water when cooking quinoa for enhanced flavor
Always let quinoa cool before mixing in other ingredients for optimal texture
Fresh herbs should be added just before serving to maintain their vibrant taste and color

Sharing this recipe reminds me of the time my friend tried making it for her first dinner party. She was nervous but ended up impressing everyone with how delicious it turned out!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make this Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance for flavors to meld beautifully.

What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use couscous or bulgur wheat if you prefer a different grain option.

Is this salad vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! It contains no animal products and is perfect for vegans and vegetarians alike.

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