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Lemony Quinoa Chickpea Salad

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A fresh, light, and nourishing salad made with fluffy quinoa, protein-rich chickpeas, crisp vegetables, and a bright lemon dressing.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/3 cup feta cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water, then cook it with water according to package instructions (about 15 minutes). Let it cool completely.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Add the cooled quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley to the bowl.
  4. Toss everything together until evenly coated with the dressing.
  5. If using feta cheese, gently fold it in.
  6. Let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness.
  • Let quinoa cool fully to keep the salad fresh and not soggy.
  • Add extra lemon juice or olive oil before serving if it becomes dry.
  • Optional additions include avocado, bell peppers, mint, or dill.
  • Can be made ahead; flavor improves over time.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/lemony-quinoa-chickpea-salad/