Dinner

Favorite Quinoa Salad Recipe

ByRita Bennet February 17, 2026February 17, 2026

Introduction

This favorite quinoa salad is a fresh, colorful, and nutritious dish perfect for light lunches or as a vibrant side. Packed with chickpeas, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing, it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

A white bowl filled with a colorful quinoa salad showing three main layers: the base layer is a mix of white and red quinoa grains with a fluffy texture; the middle layer includes round beige chickpeas scattered throughout; and the top layers consist of finely chopped bright green parsley, small green cucumber pieces with a watery texture, diced red bell peppers with a smooth surface, and tiny bits of purple onion adding sharp color contrasts, all mixed evenly together. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side, partially submerged in the salad. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed in a fine-mesh colander
2 cups water

1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained, or 1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas
1 medium cucumber, seeded and chopped

1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
¾ cup chopped red onion (from 1 small red onion)

1 cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley (from 1 large bunch)
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup lemon juice (from 2 to 3 lemons)

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
½ teaspoon fine sea salt

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the rinsed quinoa and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered until the quinoa absorbs all the water, about 15 minutes, adjusting the heat to maintain a simmer.
Step 2: Remove the pan from heat, cover, and let the quinoa rest for 5 minutes to fluff up.

Step 3: In a large serving bowl, mix the chickpeas, chopped cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and parsley. Set aside.
Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, and salt until blended. Set aside.
Step 5: When the quinoa has mostly cooled, add it to the vegetable mixture. Drizzle the dressing over and toss until thoroughly combined.

Step 6: Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste, adding an extra pinch of salt if needed. For best flavor, let the salad rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, add toasted nuts or seeds such as almonds or pumpkin seeds.
Swap parsley for fresh mint or cilantro for a different herbal note.

Use lime juice instead of lemon for a slightly different citrus flavor.
Chill the salad before serving to enhance the refreshing taste.

Storage

Store the salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can be served chilled or at room temperature. Before serving again, give it a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing.

How to Serve

This image shows a close-up of a mixed quinoa salad in a white bowl resting on a white marbled surface. The salad has three visible layers: the base layer is mixed white and red quinoa grains, soft and tiny with a slightly fluffy texture. The middle layer consists of creamy, light beige chickpeas scattered evenly. On top, there are chopped colorful vegetables including bright red bell pepper pieces, small green cucumber cubes, finely chopped fresh parsley, and tiny bits of purple red onion, all mixed throughout. The overall look is fresh, vibrant, and healthy with a mix of soft, crisp, and leafy textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute cooked bulgur, couscous, or farro, though cooking times and water ratios will vary. Choose a grain you prefer and prepare it according to package instructions.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This quinoa salad keeps well for several days and makes for a quick, healthy lunch or side dish. Just store it in an airtight container and dress it close to serving if you prefer fresher greens.