Description
A fresh and nourishing Favorite Quinoa Salad combining fluffy quinoa, crisp vegetables, savory smoked turkey bacon substitute, and a lively apple cider vinegar dressing. This versatile, nutrient-packed salad is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and is quick to prepare with customizable options.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon substitute, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness. Cook it in salted water according to package instructions, typically about 15 minutes. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Turkey Bacon Substitute: While the quinoa cooks, slice the smoked turkey bacon substitute into bite-sized pieces. Cook in a non-stick pan over medium heat until crispy and golden, adding a smoky and savory crunch to the salad. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Chop the Vegetables and Herbs: Dice cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion into uniform pieces for even flavor throughout the salad. Finely chop fresh parsley to sprinkle in at the end for a fragrant and fresh finish.
- Make the Dressing: Combine apple cider vinegar (natural), olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Whisk vigorously until it emulsifies into a smooth, tangy dressing that brightens the salad.
- Assemble the Favorite Quinoa Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chopped vegetables, parsley, smoked turkey bacon substitute, and chickpeas. Pour the dressing over everything and gently toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Notes
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly to prevent bitterness and allow it to cool fully to keep vegetables crisp.
- Use fresh and ripe vegetables for best crunch and flavor.
- Start with less dressing and add more gradually to avoid sogginess.
- Toast nuts or seeds if adding for extra nutty flavor.
- Toss salad gently to maintain light texture without crushing ingredients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: quinoa salad, healthy salad, gluten free salad, easy lunch, plant-based protein, apple cider vinegar dressing
