Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Delight

Backstory

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is inspired by the vibrant flavors and healthful ingredients of the Mediterranean region. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner, packed with protein and fiber to keep you satisfied.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup chickpeas (canned or cooked), rinsed and drained
• 1/2 avocado, diced (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (or substitute with avocado oil)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• Feta cheese (optional, add if desired)

Instructions

1. Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water (or broth) and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it cool.

2. Prepare Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, chickpeas, and avocado (if using).

3. Add Cooked Quinoa: Once the quinoa has cooled, fluff it with a fork and add it to the vegetable mixture.

4. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.

5. Combine: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all ingredients. Lastly, fold in the fresh herbs (parsley and mint) and feta cheese if using.

6. Serve: Enjoy immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Flavor Profile

This salad bursts with fresh, bright flavors from the lemon, crispness from the veggies, and heartiness from the quinoa and chickpeas. It’s refreshing with a hint of earthiness from the herbs and crunch from the vegetables.

Low Inflammation Diet Friendliness

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients such as quinoa, fresh vegetables, and herbs. The addition of healthy fats from avocado and olive oil helps promote overall health while keeping inflammation at bay.

Enjoy making this deliciously refreshing salad, and feel free to ask if you need any alterations or additional help!