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Ultimate Easy Quinoa Salad Recipe


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  • Author: Madilyn
  • Total Time: 1 hr 30 min

Ingredients

Quinoa:

1 cup quinoa

2 cups water or vegetable/chicken broth

1/2 tsp salt

Filling:

1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup shelled edamame

1 cup roasted corn or plain frozen corn

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup roasted red peppers, diced

1/2 cup pickled red onions, diced (or plain diced red onion)

1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped

Dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tbsp lemon juice

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper


Instructions

  1. Cook the Quinoa:
    Combine quinoa, water (or broth), and salt in a pot or rice cooker. Cook until liquid is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Prepare Fillings and Dressing:
    While quinoa cools, chop vegetables and herbs. In a small bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients until smooth.

  3. Combine Ingredients:
    Add cooled quinoa to a large bowl with beans, edamame, corn, cucumber, peppers, onions, and cilantro.

  4. Toss and Serve:
    Pour the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly. Serve immediately or store for later.

Notes

  • Cook quinoa up to 2 days in advance for quick meal prep.
  • Customize ingredients: chickpeas, spinach, kale, avocado, or feta work wonderfully.
  • Salad stays fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge; keep dressing separate for best results.
  • Freeze cooked quinoa (not the salad) for up to 3 months. Thaw 24 hours in the fridge before using.
  • Prep Time: 20 g
  • Cook Time: 20 g