This Everyday Quinoa Salad is an easy veggie-packed side that pairs with almost any meal. Loaded with lots of color, texture, and tossed together with an easy lemon dressing.

Why I Love It

Vegan and Plant-Based
Fresh and Colorful
Meal Prep Friendly

quinoa, veggies, and parsley in glass bowl

Ingredients for this Quinoa Salad:

Quinoa - I also love using quinoa to make these Crispy Quinoa Patties.
Veggie Stock or Water - For cooking the quinoa. I love the extra flavor that cooking in stock gives, but using water is just fine.
Veggies - Cucumber, Bell Pepper, Red Onion
Fresh Parsley
Dressing - Olive Oil, Lemon Juice, Red Wine Vinegar, Garlic, Salt and Pepper

quinoa, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley

Frequently Asked Questions

Does quinoa need to be rinsed?

Quinoa does need to be rinsed before cooking or you can buy quinoa that is labeled as 'pre-rinsed'. The reason for rinsing is to remove the bitter-tasting compound (saponin) that coats the seeds.

How can you add more flavor to cooked quinoa?

For extra flavor, try cooking the quinoa in a stock or broth instead of water.

Quinoa Salad Variations

Chickpeas - For plant-based protein, add a can of rinsed and drained chickpeas.
Chicken - Cooked and shredded or cubed chicken breast is a great addition
Salmon - Cooked and flaked salmon can be gently tossed into the salad.
Other Veggies - This salad is very customizable with the veggies of your choosing.

Storage and Make Ahead

Salad Storage - If the salad has been tossed with the dressing, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be aware that the veggies will soften slightly.
Dressing Storage - The dressing will keep in the fridge, in a mason jar or container for up to one week. Give the dressing another shake before using.
Make Ahead - For best results when making ahead for meal prep, I like to wait to toss with the dressing. This will keep the veggies crisp much longer.

Check out these other Quinoa Recipes

Thai Quinoa Salad - Filled with tons of crunch, texture, and tossed together with a delicious homemade Sesame Dressing.
Crispy Quinoa Patties - Serve on a salad, in a pita, as a side dish, or on their own with a little hot sauce and avocado.
Vegan Quinoa Chili - Protein-packed thanks to the quinoa and beans and lots of fiber make this chili extra filling.

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