Quinoa Salad Recipe

Looking for the best quinoa salad recipe that’s easy, healthy, and totally customizable? This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is the ultimate combination of fresh veggies, zesty herbs, and a simple lemony dressing. Whether you want a refreshing lunch, a hearty side, or a meal-prep staple, this easy quinoa salad recipe delivers.

It’s protein-packed with quinoa and roasted chickpeas, but you can also add grilled chicken, tofu, or paneer for extra fuel. Plus, I’ll share ideas to transform it into a zesty quinoa salad, a fusion-style quinoa salad Indian, and even a crispy quinoa version for added texture.

🥗 Why You'll Love This Quinoa Salad Recipe

• Nutritious & Filling: High in plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stays fresh for several days — perfect for lunches.
• Customizable: Vegan, vegetarian, or high-protein — your choice!
• Quick & Simple: Minimal prep, maximum flavor — great for busy days.

🛒 Ingredients for the Best Quinoa Salad

• 1 cup quinoa, cooked and cooled (see instructions below)
• 1 cup roasted cherry or grape tomatoes
• 2 Persian cucumbers, diced
• ½ small red onion, finely chopped
• ⅓ cup feta cheese, crumbled (skip for vegan option)
• ⅓ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
• ¼ cup toasted pine nuts
• ½ cup roasted chickpeas (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups arugula
• ¼ cup mixed fresh herbs: mint, parsley, oregano, thyme, or basil

For the Quinoa Salad Dressing:

• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt & pepper to taste

🔪 How to Cook Quinoa Perfectly

1. Rinse: Place quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water.
2. Cook: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup quinoa with 1¾ cups water. Bring to a boil.
3. Simmer: Reduce to low, cover, and cook for 12–15 minutes until water is absorbed.
4. Steam: Remove from heat, keep covered for 10 minutes.
5. Fluff: Use a fork to fluff. Cool completely before adding to salad.

🥗 How to Make This Easy Quinoa Salad

1. Prep: Cook quinoa and roast tomatoes up to 3 days ahead.
2. Make the Dressing: Whisk olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine: In a large bowl, toss quinoa with tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, feta, olives, pine nuts, arugula, and herbs.
4. Dress: Pour in half the dressing and toss gently. Season with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
5. Serve: Top with roasted chickpeas and drizzle extra dressing as desired.

🍗 Quinoa Salad with Chicken (Protein Boost!)

To make a satisfying quinoa salad with chicken, simply add:

• Grilled chicken breast slices (seasoned with lemon & herbs)
• Shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience
• Grilled tofu or paneer for vegetarian protein

This variation transforms it into a complete, protein-rich meal. For a specific quinoa salad with chicken recipe, mix in about 1 cup of cooked chicken per serving.

🌿 Quinoa Salad Variations & Flavor Ideas

🟢 Zesty Quinoa Salad

Amp up the citrus with extra lemon juice, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of zest. Add crumbled feta and red pepper flakes for brightness and heat.

🟠 Quinoa Salad Indian Style

Give it a desi twist by adding:

• Cumin seeds, coriander powder, and turmeric to the dressing
• Fresh cilantro and mint
• A squeeze of lime instead of lemon

This quinoa salad Indian version pairs beautifully with spiced grilled paneer or chickpeas.

🔴 Crispy Quinoa Salad

For added crunch:

1. Spread cooked quinoa on a baking sheet.
2. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 mins until crispy.
3. Toss into your salad just before serving.

This technique adds a unique texture, inspired by the popular crispy quinoa salad trend.

🥄 How to Make Quinoa Salad Dressing

This dressing is a simple lemony vinaigrette, but here are more options:

• Greek-style: Add oregano and red wine vinegar.
• Tahini-based: Mix in a spoonful of tahini for creaminess.
• Indian-spiced: Stir in ground cumin and a pinch of cayenne.

Want more tips? See: [How to make quinoa salad dressing].

🍱 Quinoa Salad Meal Prep & Storage Tips

• Batch Cook: Make quinoa and roasted veggies in advance.
• Store: Keep salad and dressing separate until ready to eat for maximum freshness.
• Longevity: Lasts 3-4 days in the fridge. Refresh with lemon juice, olive oil, or fresh herbs.

This makes it perfect for quinoa salad meal prep — ideal for healthy, grab-and-go lunches.

🍽️ What to Serve with Quinoa Salad

• Main Dish: Pair with veggie burgers, BBQ jackfruit, or grilled portobello mushrooms.
• Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled veggies, summer skewers, or soups.
• Light Lunch: Enjoy with a side of hummus and pita bread.

❓ FAQs

Is quinoa salad healthy?

Yes! Quinoa is a complete protein, rich in fiber and essential nutrients. Combined with veggies, nuts, and healthy fats, it makes for a balanced meal.

How to meal prep quinoa salad?

Cook grains and roast veggies ahead of time. Store them separately from dressing and greens to keep everything fresh. Assemble just before eating.

Can I make quinoa salad with chicken?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even tofu can easily be mixed in for a heartier, protein-packed option.

How do you make quinoa salad dressing?

Simply whisk olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, mustard, sweetener (like honey or maple), salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to taste.

🥗 More Hearty Salad Recipes

• Simple Kale Salad

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