Best Ever Quinoa Salad (Protein Packed + Easy)!
Looking for a fresh, healthy quinoa salad that’s simple to make and full of flavor? This best ever quinoa salad has become a go-to recipe in my kitchen—especially when I’m short on time and ideas. It’s satisfying, and incredibly versatile.
This quinoa salad is full of plant-based protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors. It’s perfect for a healthy lunch at work, a light dinner, or even a picnic.
Why I love this quinoa salad (best ever)
Quinoa is an ancient whole grain that’s quick to prepare and naturally gluten-free. You’ll find white, red, and black quinoa on the market—each with slightly different textures and flavors. I like to mix all three quinoa types and store them in an airtight container, ready to go for easy weekday meals.
The best part? You can cook a big batch of quinoa and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat or serve cold with your favorite toppings!
What’s in my best ever quinoa salad ?
Here’s what I add to my quinoa bowl to keep it fresh and protein-rich:
- Steamed edamame (for more protein) or green peas
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh mint and coriander
- Favorite spices (cumin, paprika, or a pinch of chili)
This combination is refreshing, satisfying, and full of color!
What dressing to use for quinoa salad?
For a quick fix, I simply drizzle the salad with lemon juice and olive oil—fresh, zesty, and so easy.
But when I have a few extra minutes, I love topping it with my creamy carrot ginger dressing, which takes this dish to another level!
How to cook quinoa (the right way)?
Cooking quinoa is similar to cooking rice, but there are a couple of key tips:
- Always rinse your quinoa before cooking to remove its natural coating (that is called saponin), which can make it taste bitter.
- Cook in water or vegetable broth for 10–15 minutes until fluffy.
- Once cooked, let it rest covered for 5 minutes—this makes a big difference in texture!
Top Tip : why is quinoa good for you
Did you know that quinoa was once considered a sacred food by the Inca civilization? Today, it’s celebrated around the world for good reason! Quinoa is:
- Rich in protein and contains all nine essential amino acids
- A great source of fiber and antioxidants
- Naturally gluten-free, making it ideal for anyone avoiding gluten
- Delicious in savory dishes—and even for breakfast! (Try my warm quinoa breakfast bowl for a sweet twist.)
Healthy best ever quinoa salad and…
Hearty, flavorful, easy and quick !
– Healthy greetings from Laetitia –
Best ever quinoa salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- ½ lemon
- 1 handful of mint, chopped
- 1 handful of coriander, chopped
- ⅓ cup edamame – or you can use green peas
- 10 small tomatoes, cut in half
- 1-2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Himalayan salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Instructions
- Let edamame (or green peas) defrost in a bowl.
- Rinse the quinoa with cold water and place it in a saucepan. Add 2 cups of water.
- Bring it to a boil, lower the heat, and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Set aside to cool down and cover the saucepan.
- While you cook the quinoa, steam the edamame or green peas (or microwave them, adding a bit of water). Shell the edamame if needed.
- Cut the tomatoes in half.
- Chop the coriander and the mint.
- Mix the lemon, a drizzle of olive oil and all the other ingredients with the quinoa. Place in the fridge to be perfectly cold or eat it warm.
