Vegetarian Recipe With Quinoa: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Quinoa is truly a superstar in the world of vegetarian cooking, and for good reason. This tiny seed packs a mighty nutritional punch, offering a complete protein source that’s both gluten-free and incredibly versatile.

Whether you’re new to vegetarian meals or a seasoned plant-based foodie, incorporating quinoa into your dishes is a fantastic way to boost flavor, texture, and health benefits.

Today, we’re diving into a vibrant and hearty vegetarian quinoa recipe that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prepping for the week. Bursting with fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a zesty dressing, this dish is as colorful as it is nutritious.

Not only is it satisfying and filling, but it also comes together with ease, making it a go-to for busy days when you want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe will inspire you to embrace quinoa’s incredible potential. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of other vegetarian favorites — be sure to check out our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or our Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners for more delicious ideas!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian quinoa recipe is a perfect balance of taste, nutrition, and convenience. Here’s why it stands out:

• Complete Protein: Quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a rare plant-based complete protein.
• Loaded with Vegetables: Fresh, colorful veggies add crunch, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Easy to Customize: Swap out veggies or add beans, nuts, or seeds to suit your taste and pantry.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps well in the fridge for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
• Gluten-Free and Vegan: Perfect for a variety of dietary needs without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth for cooking quinoa
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas (canned, drained, and rinsed works well)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, omit for vegan)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing quinoa)
• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Serving bowls or meal prep containers

Instructions

1. Rinse the quinoa: Place 1 cup of quinoa into a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water for about 30 seconds. This removes quinoa’s natural coating, saponin, which can taste bitter.
2. Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and quinoa is tender.
3. Fluff and cool: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then fluff the quinoa with a fork and transfer it to a large mixing bowl to cool to room temperature.
4. Prepare the vegetables: While quinoa is cooking, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Add these to the bowl with quinoa.
5. Add chickpeas and herbs: Stir in the cooked chickpeas, chopped parsley, and mint for a fresh burst of flavor.
6. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
7. Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
8. Add feta cheese: If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top and give a final gentle mix.
9. Serve or refrigerate: Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. This salad tastes even better after the flavors meld!

Tips & Variations

“Quinoa is incredibly versatile – feel free to experiment with different herbs, veggies, or even add nuts and seeds for extra texture and nutrition.”

• Make it vegan: Omit the feta cheese or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Add crunch: Toasted almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds make great additions.
• Boost protein: Add cooked lentils or edamame for an even heartier dish.
• Try different herbs: Cilantro, dill, or basil can provide different flavor profiles.
• Warm option: Serve the quinoa salad warm by mixing in cooked vegetables like roasted sweet potatoes or sautéed zucchini.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian quinoa salad is wonderfully flexible when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Serve chilled with a side of warm pita bread and hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired lunch.
• Pair with grilled vegetables or roasted portobello mushrooms for a filling dinner.
• Use as a stuffing for bell peppers or tomatoes and bake for a colorful presentation.
• Top with avocado slices and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a creamy, spicy twist.
• Enjoy alongside our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a balanced meal with a sweet finish.

Conclusion

Quinoa’s versatility and impressive nutrition make it a staple ingredient for anyone embracing vegetarian cooking. This recipe combines wholesome ingredients with fresh herbs and a tangy dressing, resulting in a vibrant dish that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday meal, a colorful side dish, or a make-ahead lunch, this quinoa salad fits the bill perfectly.

By incorporating simple pantry staples and fresh produce, you create a meal that not only tastes delicious but also fuels your body with essential nutrients. Don’t hesitate to experiment with this recipe—quinoa pairs beautifully with a variety of flavors and textures.

If you enjoyed this recipe, explore other exciting vegetarian dishes like our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas or try your hand at savory delights from our Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!

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