Irresistible Lemon Herb Quinoa with Chickpeas: A Nourishing Power Bowl for Clean Eating

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with protein and fiber, this quinoa salad is a great choice for clean eating. The combination of quinoa, chickpeas, and fresh veggies makes it a well-balanced meal that’s both filling and nutritious. The lemon herb dressing adds a tangy zing, while fresh parsley and mint bring a burst of flavor to every bite. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for meal prep, and can be customized with your favorite add-ins.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Whole Grains and Protein:
1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
1 ¾ cups water (or vegetable broth)
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

Fresh Vegetables and Herbs:
1 small cucumber, diced
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
½ cup parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (optional)

Lemon Herb Dressing:
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 large lemon
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp sea salt
¼ tsp black pepper

directions

1. Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water (or vegetable broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes. Once cooked, remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool.

2. Prepare Veggies: While the quinoa is cooking, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the parsley and mint, and finely dice the red onion. Rinse and drain the chickpeas.

3. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

4. Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, and prepared vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This dish can be served cold or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add-Ins: Top with sliced avocado, feta, olives, roasted red pepper, or arugula for extra flavor and texture.

• Flavor Boost: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing.

• Protein Packed: Add grilled tofu, tempeh, or roasted chicken for extra protein.

• Herb Swap: Experiment with other herbs like cilantro, basil, or dill in place of mint and parsley.

• Crunchy Twist: Add a handful of toasted nuts like almonds or pistachios for a bit of crunch.

storage/reheating

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For best results, keep the dressing separate if storing for more than 2 days to maintain its texture and freshness.
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. It’s not recommended for freezing.

FAQs

Can I use quinoa flakes instead of whole quinoa?

Yes, quinoa flakes can be used, but the texture will be different. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time, as quinoa flakes cook much faster.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare it a day ahead, and the flavors will intensify.

How do I make the dressing creamy?

To make the dressing creamier, add a tablespoon of tahini or Greek yogurt (if not vegan).

Can I use frozen chickpeas?

Yes, you can use frozen chickpeas. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.

Is this salad suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s kid-friendly and can be adjusted to suit their taste. You could omit the onion or mint if they’re not big fans.

Can I serve this as a main dish?

Yes, this salad is filling enough to serve as a main course, especially with added protein like tofu or tempeh.

How can I make this salad spicier?

To add some heat, mix in red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a spicy dressing.

Can I substitute the parsley with another herb?

Yes, you can use cilantro, basil, or even dill for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when the quinoa is cooked properly?

The quinoa should be tender and have a little “tail” coming off the grain. You should also be able to fluff it easily with a fork.

How can I enhance the flavor of the quinoa?

For more flavor, cook the quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water.

Conclusion

Lemon Herb Quinoa with Chickpeas is a light, flavorful, and nutritious meal perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, full of plant-based protein, and customizable with a variety of fresh vegetables and add-ins. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a refreshing dinner, or a meal prep option, this quinoa salad is a perfect choice that will keep you energized and satisfied throughout the day.

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