Vegan Quinoa Salad

Total Time

Prep/Total Time: 30 min.

Makes

6 cups

Updated: Dec. 10, 2022
Toasting the grain before it simmers isn't essential, but it does add a pleasant nuttiness to the flavor of this vegan quinoa salad. Mix and match whatever fresh herbs and veggies you have on hand. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Vegan Quinoa Salad Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Ingredients

  • 1-1/2 cups quinoa, rinsed and well drained
  • 3 cups water
  • 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 6 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
  • 6 tablespoons minced fresh mint
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 mini cucumbers, sliced
  • 1 medium sweet red pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion

Directions

  1. In a large saucepan, cook and stir quinoa over medium-high heat 3-5 minutes or until toasted. Add the water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until liquid is absorbed, 12-15 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl. Cool slightly.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, mint and salt. Add vegetables to quinoa; drizzle with dressing and toss to combine. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts

3/4 cup: 227 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 449mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1-1/2 starch.