Solar-Powered Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad

Name: Solar-Powered Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups water; 1 lemon; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 cup fresh parsley; 1/4 cup fresh mint; 1/2 cup cucumber; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes; 1/4 cup red onion; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

A vibrant, nutrient-rich salad featuring quinoa infused with lemon and fresh herbs, ideal for a light lunch or side dish.

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Category: Salads

Prep: 15 minutes. Cook: 15 minutes.

Serves 4.

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
1 lemon
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup fresh parsley
1/4 cup fresh mint
1/2 cup cucumber
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup red onion
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Bring 2 cups water to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. Add 1 cup rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and let cool to room temperature.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the juice of 1 lemon, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until emulsified. Add the cooled quinoa, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint, 1/2 cup diced cucumber, 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes, and 1/4 cup finely diced red onion. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 3: Gently fold in 1 tablespoon lemon zest. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld before serving.