High Protein Quinoa Chickpea Salad

This High Protein Quinoa & Chickpea Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings together the best of Mediterranean-inspired flavors. With fluffy quinoa, hearty chickpeas, and fresh vegetables, it is a satisfying meal perfect for a healthy lunch or a colorful side dish at your next gathering.

Pin it

The combination of crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese creates a delightful contrast in every bite, all tied together with a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• ½ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Quickly chop vegetables, mince herbs, and blend sauces for faster, everyday meal preparation.

Check price on Amazon

Instructions

Step 1

Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold running water.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

Step 3

While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and chop the herbs.

Step 4

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, chopped herbs, and crumbled feta cheese.

Step 5

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Step 7

Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for a colder, more refreshing salad.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure your quinoa is perfectly fluffy, make sure to rinse it well before cooking to remove its natural bitter coating. For an extra layer of flavor, consider using vegetable broth instead of plain water when simmering the grains.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan version, simply omit the feta or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. You can further customize this salad by adding diced avocado or roasted red peppers for extra richness, or swap the parsley for fresh mint or basil for a different herb profile.

Serviervorschläge

This salad is delicious when served on a bed of fresh spinach or arugula for added greens. To round out the meal, it pairs exceptionally well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing lemon-infused sparkling water.

Pin it

Enjoy this easy-to-make, protein-packed Mediterranean delight that is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat!

Mix doughs, batters, and whipped cream easily for baking cakes, cookies, and everyday treats.

Check price on Amazon

Common Questions

→ How can I make this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

To create a delicious vegan version, simply omit the crumbled feta cheese or substitute it with your favorite plant-based cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally plant-based.

→ What are some good additions to enhance the flavor?

For extra flavor and texture, consider adding diced avocado for creaminess, roasted red peppers for a smoky sweetness, or even some toasted nuts like slivered almonds or walnuts. Fresh mint or basil can also offer a delightful herb variation.

→ Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad is excellent for meal prepping. You can prepare all components and store them separately, or combine everything (except the dressing) in a bowl. Add the dressing just before serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.

→ How long will this salad last in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this salad typically stays fresh for 2-3 days. If you've dressed the entire salad, it's best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal texture and flavor.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa if I don't have it?

While quinoa offers excellent protein and texture, you could substitute it with other cooked grains like couscous, farro, or even brown rice for a similar hearty base. Adjust cooking times according to the grain chosen.

→ Are there any alternative dressing ideas?

Beyond the simple olive oil and lemon juice, you could try a balsamic vinaigrette, a light tahini dressing, or even a creamy dill dressing to give the salad a different flavor profile. Just ensure it complements the fresh ingredients.