Have you ever wanted a dish that’s not only filling but also packed with nutrients? This black quinoa salad is just that! It’s a colorful, protein-rich recipe that brings together the earthy flavor of quinoa with fresh, crisp vegetables. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for dinner, this salad is both satisfying and healthy.
Let me share a little about this recipe: black quinoa has a slightly nuttier taste compared to its white counterpart, and it adds a beautiful dark hue to your plate. Toss in some vibrant veggies and a zesty dressing, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s not just good for the body but also delightful for the senses.
A Wholesome Black Quinoa Salad
This black quinoa salad offers a refreshing mix of textures and flavors that make it a delightful addition to any meal. Fluffy black quinoa forms the base of the dish, providing a nutty flavor and a wealth of nutrients.
The incorporation of crisp vegetables like diced bell peppers, cucumbers, and juicy cherry tomatoes adds both color and crunch. Each ingredient contributes to a satisfying experience, making every bite a burst of freshness.
Colorful Ingredients
The vibrant hues of red, yellow, and green bell peppers enhance the salad’s visual appeal, while cucumbers add a cool crispness. Cherry tomatoes not only infuse the dish with sweetness but also provide a juicy burst of flavor.
Chopping the vegetables into bite-sized pieces ensures that they mix seamlessly with the quinoa, creating a harmonious blend of ingredients. Fresh parsley or cilantro adds a finishing touch, enhancing both the look and taste.
Zesty Lemon Dressing
The zesty lemon dressing is the key to tying all the flavors together. A simple combination of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper balances the salad and accentuates the freshness of the vegetables.
Whisking these ingredients together in a small bowl is quick and easy, making it a convenient addition to the dish. Drizzling the dressing over the salad just before serving ensures that every bite is infused with flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This salad is versatile and can be enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or even as a picnic item. Its colorful presentation makes it an attractive choice for gatherings, while the healthy ingredients cater to those seeking nutritious options.
Chilled or at room temperature, this black quinoa salad is sure to impress guests and provide a satisfying meal for family. Its balanced combination of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients makes it not only delicious but also nourishing.
Simple Preparation Steps
Preparing this salad is straightforward and quick. Start by cooking the black quinoa, ensuring it becomes fluffy and tender. Once cooled, mix it with the chopped vegetables and drizzle with the zesty dressing.
The entire process can be completed in about 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. This salad can even be made in advance, allowing flavors to meld for an even more delicious outcome.
Health Benefits
Black quinoa is a powerhouse of nutrition, rich in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. This makes the salad not only filling but also beneficial for overall health.
Incorporating a variety of vegetables boosts the salad’s vitamin content, while the healthy fats from olive oil contribute to heart health. Enjoying a bowl of this vibrant salad is a step towards maintaining a balanced diet.
A Wholesome Black Quinoa Salad
This black quinoa salad is a refreshing combination of fluffy quinoa, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing. Each bite offers a satisfying texture and a wholesome taste, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup black quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a saucepan, combine the rinsed black quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Let it cool.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooling, chop the bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley or cilantro.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: In a large bowl, mix the cooled quinoa with the chopped vegetables and dressing. Toss gently until everything is well combined.
- Serve: Enjoy the salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect as a standalone dish or as a side.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g