Chickpea Quinoa Salad

This quinoa salad, in particular, is one of my favorites. It’s delicious, healthy, and easy to make, and it requires only a few simple ingredients and can be prepared ahead of time! 

This simple quinoa salad is packed with quinoa, chickpeas, veggies, and a bright citrus dressing. This is also the perfect dish to bring to summer gatherings or add to your weekly rotation if you’re prioritizing eating plant-forward. 

The ever-so versatile quinoa is high in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and it’s a complete protein as it encompasses all nine essential amino acids!

Its fiber keeps you satiated for longer, and it contains a high concentration of anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, making it a powerhouse full of nourishing benefits.

This quinoa salad is simple and quick; here’s all you need to get started.

 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 cup quinoa
  •  ¼ cup red onion, chopped
  • 1 cup chopped cucumber
  • ½ cup chopped tomato
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained
  • ¼ teaspoon cumin
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp. cilantro
  • ½ tsp. red chili flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (or lime)*

 

Preparation:

  1. Rinse the quinoa until the water flows clear through a fine-mesh strainer. In a medium saucepan, bring the quinoa, 2 cups of water, and salt to a boil over medium heat. Lower the flame, cover, and leave to simmer for 15 minutes. Allow cooling for 5-10 minutes after removing from the heat. Use a fork to fluff it up and let cool to room temperature.
  2. Take a bowl and whisk together red chili flakes, oil, cumin, and lemon juice—season to taste with salt and pepper.
  3. Add tomato, cucumber, onion, chickpeas, and cilantro into the bowl; toss to coat. Stir in quinoa. We recommend keeping the salad in the fridge for at least one hour before serving it.

 

Notes:

  • This salad can be served hot or cold.
  • Refrigerate any leftovers for 3 to 4 days in an airtight container.
  • Feel free to experiment with various veggies that you like. 

 

We hope you’ll love this recipe as much as we do. If you do, let us know! Share, post, and tag us @cotybrown.co. We love hearing from you!

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