Daily Citrus Herb Quinoa Salad

By Lauren Mitchell, Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-28 · Updated 2026-04-28

A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with fresh citrus segments and herbs, ideal for a daily nutritious lunch or side. This mediterranean-inspired meal prep (gluten free, vegetarian) ready in about 40 minutes pairs quinoa, water, orange for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a quick salad. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 cup, rinsed quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 large, peeled and segmented orange
• 1 medium, peeled and segmented grapefruit
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups water to a boil. Add 1 cup rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with 1 large peeled and segmented orange and 1 medium peeled and segmented grapefruit.
3. Step 3: Add 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley to the bowl. Drizzle with 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil and 2 tbsp lemon juice.
4. Step 4: Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Toss gently to combine all flavors without breaking up the fruit segments. Serve chilled or at room temperature.