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Vibrant Loaded Vegetable Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This Loaded Vegetable Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a colorful, nutritious dish that harmonizes the crunch of fresh veggies with the nutty flavor of quinoa. Tossed in a bright lemon vinaigrette, it’s the perfect balance of zest and heartiness, making it a delightful main course or side dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cucumber diced
  • 1 carrot shredded
  • 1/4 red onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese optional
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water, then add it to a pot with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt.
  2. While the quinoa cooks, prepare your vegetables: dice the bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion; shred the carrot, and chop the parsley.
  3. Once the quinoa is done, let it cool slightly, then fluff it with a fork before transferring it to a large mixing bowl.
  4. Add the chopped vegetables to the bowl with quinoa and sprinkle in the parsley.
  5. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until it emulsifies into a smooth dressing.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad, gently tossing everything to coat evenly.
  7. If using feta, sprinkle it over the top last, then give the salad a final gentle toss before serving.

Notes

For best results, prepare the vinaigrette just before serving. Store leftovers in the fridge without dressing for freshness.