Name: Fresh Quinoa Veggie Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Global
Ingredients: 1 cup tricolor quinoa; 1 medium cucumber, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped; ½ medium red onion, finely chopped; ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Salt & pepper to taste

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Fresh quinoa veggie salad for Environment Day awareness is like a burst of color on your plate, bringing together vibrant vegetables and fluffy quinoa in a delicious embrace. Each bite is a satisfying crunch, a medley of textures dancing joyfully in your mouth, while the fresh herbs infuse everything with a fragrant touch that makes you feel like you’re picnic-ing in a sun-kissed garden.

This salad isn’t just food; it’s a celebration of flavors and sustainability! Whenever I whip up this fresh quinoa veggie salad, I can’t help but reminisce about those sunny afternoons spent with friends, laughing over bowls of healthy goodness. It’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or just when you need a refreshing meal that makes you feel good inside and out. Trust me; after one bite, you’ll want to spread the word about this delightful creation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This fresh quinoa veggie salad is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The colorful ingredients create an eye-catching presentation that impresses everyone at the table
Bursting with flavor from fresh herbs and vegetables, it’s incredibly tasty and nutritious
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on your personal preferences or seasonal produce

Every time I serve this salad, my friends rave about how delicious it is. They even asked for the recipe after one memorable summer barbecue!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Quinoa: Use tricolor quinoa for an appealing look and nutty flavor—rinse before cooking to remove bitterness.
Cucumber: Choose firm cucumbers for crunch; they add refreshing moisture to the salad.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy; halved tomatoes brighten up the dish with vibrant color.
Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colors for visual appeal; they provide sweetness and crunch.
Red Onion: Finely chopped red onion adds a sharp bite that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley delivers freshness; opt for flat-leaf parsley if available.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens every bite; it’s essential for flavor balance!
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for richness and depth; it enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings elevate the dish—don’t skip them!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Quinoa: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water until no foam appears. In a saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

Simmer Until Fluffy: Reduce heat to low once boiling. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes until water absorbs completely. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

Chop the Veggies: While quinoa cools, chop 1 cucumber, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, 1 bell pepper (any color), and half a red onion into bite-sized pieces.

Add Fresh Herbs: Finely chop half a cup of fresh parsley as you prepare your veggies. This will add brightness to your salad.

Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa with chopped vegetables and parsley. Drizzle with juice from one lemon and 3 tablespoons of olive oil.

Season & Serve: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything gently until well combined. Serve chilled or at room temperature—enjoy every vibrant bite!

This amazing Fresh Quinoa Veggie Salad for Environment Day Awareness is a vibrant and nutritious dish that not only pleases the palate but also supports sustainable eating. The crunchy vegetables and fluffy quinoa provide a delightful texture, making every bite a fresh experience.

You Must Know

This salad is refreshing, packed with nutrients, and perfect for any occasion
Customize it with seasonal veggies to enhance flavor and sustainability
Its bright colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece for gatherings, while the simple dressing ties everything together beautifully

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing quinoa thoroughly to remove bitterness, then cook it in seasoned water for extra flavor. Allow it to cool before mixing with veggies to maintain their crunch.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or add proteins like chickpeas or grilled chicken. Experimenting with different dressings can elevate the taste and keep things interesting.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating isn’t necessary; simply enjoy it cold or at room temperature.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for maximum flavor and nutrition; they really make this salad shine!
Don’t forget to season your cooking water well; it enhances quinoa’s natural nuttiness
Prepping the salad ahead gives flavors time to meld, creating a more delicious dish

Creating this Fresh Quinoa Veggie Salad for Environment Day Awareness reminds me of my first potluck experience. I nervously brought this dish, and it was devoured faster than I could say “quinoa.” Friends raved about it, turning my anxiety into pure joy.

FAQ

What makes quinoa a good choice for salads?

Quinoa is gluten-free, high in protein, and adds a delightful texture to salads.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be prepared a day in advance without losing freshness.

How can I add more flavor to the dressing?

Adding herbs like basil or cilantro can boost the dressing’s flavor profile significantly.