Ingredients:

1 cup of quinoa

2 cups of water or vegetable broth

1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup of fresh mint, chopped

1/4 cup of feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

1/4 cup of olive oil

2 tablespoons of lemon juice

1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar

1 clove of garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the Quinoa:Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
In a medium saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil.
Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.

Prepare the Vegetables:While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and chop the parsley and mint.

Make the Dressing:In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Salad:In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled quinoa with the prepared vegetables, parsley, and mint.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top.

Serve and Enjoy:Serve the quinoa salad immediately or refrigerate it for an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Enjoy this salad as a light meal on its own or as a side dish.

Benefits:

Quinoa: A complete protein, quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids. It’s also high in fiber, magnesium, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious base for the salad.

Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion add a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They contribute to overall health, boost the immune system, and provide vibrant colors and flavors.

Herbs: Fresh parsley and mint not only enhance the flavor but also offer additional nutrients and antioxidants.

Olive Oil and Lemon Juice: Olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health. Lemon juice provides a fresh, tangy flavor and a dose of vitamin C.

Feta Cheese (Optional): Adds a creamy texture and a burst of flavor. Feta cheese is also a good source of calcium and protein.

This Quick and Easy Quinoa Salad is a versatile and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a meal or a side. It’s perfect for meal prep and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and herbs.