Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas and Cucumber

 

## Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas and Cucumber

This vibrant and nutritious quinoa salad is packed with protein, fiber, and fresh flavors. It’s perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or a healthy meal prep option. Here’s how to make it!

### Ingredients

#### For the Salad:

- **1 cup quinoa** (rinsed)

- **2 cups water or vegetable broth**

- **1 can (15 oz) chickpeas** (drained and rinsed)

- **1 large cucumber** (diced)

- **1 cup cherry tomatoes** (halved)

- **1/2 red onion** (finely chopped)

- **1/4 cup fresh parsley** (chopped)

- **Salt and pepper to taste**

#### For the Dressing:

- **1/4 cup olive oil**

- **Juice of 1 lemon**

- **1 teaspoon Dijon mustard**

- **1 clove garlic** (minced)

- **Salt and pepper to taste**

### Instructions

#### Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth.

2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid is absorbed.

4. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and allow it to cool.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

1. While the quinoa is cooling, prepare the vegetables:

   - Dice the cucumber.

   - Halve the cherry tomatoes.

   - Finely chop the red onion.

   - Chop the fresh parsley.

#### Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

#### Step 4: Combine Everything

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chickpeas, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.

2. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

### Step 5: Serve

- Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. This salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

### Tips for Enjoyment

- Feel free to customize this salad by adding ingredients like bell peppers, avocado, or feta cheese for extra flavor.

- This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your delicious Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas and Cucumber! It’s not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying!