Hispanic-Inspired Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-04 · Updated 2026-04-04

A refreshing grain salad celebrating the top Hispanic surnames, featuring protein-rich quinoa with zesty lime-cilantro dressing and colorful vegetables. This latin american-inspired salads (vegetarian, gluten-free) ready in about 30 minutes pairs uncooked quinoa, vegetable broth, finely chopped fresh cilantro into a side that holds its own next to almost any main — bright, balanced, and quick enough to slot into a weeknight plate. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly next to roasted proteins, grain bowls, or weeknight mains. 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 uncooked quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
• 3 tbsp lime juice
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse 1 cup uncooked quinoa under cold water until water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
2. Step 2: While quinoa cooks, prepare dressing: whisk 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, 3 tbsp lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp cumin, and 1/4 tsp salt in a small bowl until well combined.
3. Step 3: Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and let cool for 10 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl and add 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper, 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, and 1/4 cup diced red onion.
4. Step 4: Pour 3/4 of the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. Taste and add remaining dressing if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.