Quinoa Chickpea Salad

This easy quinoa chickpea salad is a fresh, nutritious dish that’s perfect for any meal. Packed with plant-based protein from quinoa and chickpeas, and loaded with colorful veggies, it’s a light yet satisfying option for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. The zesty lemon dressing brings all the flavors together, making this quinoa salad a go-to for quick, healthy quinoa recipes. Whether you're looking for a simple side or a hearty main, this quinoa chickpea salad is sure to become a favorite!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

• 1 ½ cups water or vegetable broth

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup cucumber, diced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp garlic powder or 1 clove fresh garlic, minced

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled plant-based feta or avocado cubes

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water (or vegetable broth) to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until quinoa is cooked and liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.

4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss until everything is well coated.

5. Adjust seasoning to taste and top with plant-based feta or avocado if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 280
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 7g
Fat: 10g

Cost per serving: $1.50

Things You'll Love About This Recipe:
Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes
Packed with plant-based protein and fiber for a filling, nutritious meal
Naturally gluten-free and perfect for meal prep
Fresh, vibrant flavors that make it a perfect side dish or main course

Expert Tips for Best Results:
Rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness
Let the quinoa cool before mixing to keep the salad light and fluffy
For extra flavor, cook the quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water

Substitutions:
Swap parsley for fresh cilantro or basil for a different flavor
Use lime juice instead of lemon for a zesty twist
Add diced avocado for extra creaminess or roasted veggies for added depth

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a light main dish or a hearty side for a plant-based dinner
Pair with grilled tofu, tempeh, or roasted veggies for a complete meal
Add to wraps or stuff in bell peppers for a fun twist

Why This Recipe Works:
The combination of quinoa and chickpeas provides a perfect balance of plant-based protein and fiber, while the fresh veggies and zesty dressing bring vibrant flavors to every bite

Flavor Variations:
Add crumbled plant-based feta or olives for a Mediterranean twist
Toss in roasted sweet potatoes or beets for a heartier salad
Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness

Highlight Ingredients:
Quinoa is a complete protein and rich in fiber, making it a nutritious base
Chickpeas add extra plant-based protein and a satisfying texture
Fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, and bell peppers bring color and crunch

Meal Prep Ideas:
Make a large batch and store in the fridge for up to 4 days
Pack into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches
Add dressing just before serving if prepping ahead to keep veggies crisp

Equipment List:
Medium saucepan for cooking quinoa
Large mixing bowl for tossing ingredients
Small bowl for whisking dressing

Grocery List:
Quinoa
Chickpeas
Cucumber
Cherry tomatoes
Red bell pepper
Red onion
Fresh parsley
Olive oil
Lemon
Red wine vinegar
Dijon mustard
Garlic
Salt and pepper