Quinoa Salad with Lemon, Cherry Tomatoes, and Herbs
Ingredients
- 1 cupquinoa
- 2 cupswater
- 2 cupscherry tomatoes
- 1 mediumcucumber
- ¼ mediumred onion
- ½ cupfresh parsley
- ¼ cupfresh mint
- 1lemon
- 3 tablespoonsolive oil
- ·salt
- ·black pepper
Prep
- 01
Halve 2 cups cherry tomatoes.
- 02
Dice 1 medium cucumber.
- 03
Mince 0.25 medium red onion.
- 04
Chop 0.5 cup fresh parsley.
- 05
Chop 0.25 cup fresh mint.
Method
- 01
Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
- 02
Bring 2 cups water to a boil in a small pot. Add rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until all water is absorbed. Remove from heat, let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool for 5–10 minutes.
- 03
Add halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, minced red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped mint to the quinoa.
- 04
Juice 1 lemon into a small bowl. Whisk in 3 tablespoons olive oil, then add a pinch each of salt and black pepper.
- 05
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or chill until ready to eat.
Spice Tips
For a subtle warmth, add a small pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. A touch of cumin or coriander seed would add earthiness. A clove or two of minced garlic brightens the freshness.