Fresh Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad with a Citrus Twist

Try this Fresh Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad with a zesty citrus twist! Packed with herbs, veggies, and fluffy quinoa, it’s a healthy, refreshing meal.

This salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s both healthy and satisfying.

If you’re searching for a refreshing, flavorful salad that’s as nourishing as it is delicious, this Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad is your answer. Bursting with vibrant herbs, zesty lemon, and a mix of textures, every bite is a delightful experience. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Imagine a dish that feels light yet hearty, combining fluffy quinoa, fresh parsley, juicy tomatoes, and crisp cucumbers, all tied together with a bright lemon dressing. It’s like a taste of the Mediterranean sunshine on your plate.

It’s also a fantastic meal prep option

What makes this recipe stand out is its versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or add chickpeas for extra protein. It’s also a fantastic meal prep option, as it stays fresh in the fridge for days. Let’s dive into the details of this vibrant, citrusy salad!

Why You’ll Love This Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad

Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and heart-healthy olive oil.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients to make it your own.
Meal Prep Friendly: Stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Ingredients That Make This Salad Shine

The secret to a great salad lies in its ingredients. This quinoa tabbouleh features a colorful mix of fresh, nutrient-packed components:

Quinoa: A complete protein that adds a hearty base.
Fresh Parsley & Mint: These herbs bring a burst of flavor and vibrant green color.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, adding a pop of red.
Cucumber: Crisp and refreshing for the perfect crunch.
Red Onion: A hint of sharpness to balance the flavors.
Lemon Dressing: A simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper ties everything together.

How to Make Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad

This recipe is as easy as it gets, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks. Here’s how to create this vibrant dish:

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water or vegetable broth.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

While the quinoa is cooling, finely chop:

1 cup fresh parsley
½ cup fresh mint leaves
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 medium cucumber
¼ cup red onion

Step 3: Mix the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with the chopped vegetables and herbs.
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup olive oil, the juice of 2 lemons, and salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Let the salad sit for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Customization Ideas

This quinoa tabbouleh is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Add Protein: Toss in chickpeas, grilled chicken, or feta cheese for extra protein.
Swap Herbs: Try dill or cilantro instead of parsley and mint for a unique twist.
Add Veggies: Include bell peppers, avocado, or shredded carrots for more color and texture.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation is key to making this salad even more appealing. Here are some tips:

Serve in a large, colorful bowl to showcase the vibrant ingredients.
Garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a finishing touch.
Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or falafel for a complete meal.
For a vegetarian option, serve alongside stuffed peppers or hummus and pita bread.

Storage Tips

One of the best things about this salad is how well it keeps in the fridge. Here’s how to store it:

Place leftovers in an airtight container.
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Before serving, give it a quick stir to redistribute the dressing.

Health Benefits of Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad

This salad isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients:

Quinoa: A complete protein that supports muscle repair and growth.
Fresh Vegetables: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats that are good for your heart.
Lemon Juice: A great source of vitamin C, boosting your immune system.

It’s a balanced meal that fits into various dietary lifestyles, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
½ cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
1 medium cucumber, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup olive oil
Juice of 2 lemons
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa

Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitterness.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water or vegetable broth.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat, fluff the quinoa with a fork, and let it cool completely.

2. Chop the Vegetables and Herbs

While the quinoa is cooling, prepare the fresh ingredients:
- Finely chop 1 cup fresh parsley (stems removed).
- Finely chop ½ cup fresh mint leaves (optional, but adds great flavor).
- Dice 1 cup cherry tomatoes into small pieces.
- Dice 1 medium cucumber (peeled if desired) into small cubes.
- Finely chop ¼ cup red onion (soak in cold water for 5 minutes to reduce sharpness, if preferred).

3. Combine the Quinoa and Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled quinoa, chopped parsley, mint, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure even distribution.

4. Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons (about ¼ cup)
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed.

5. Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture.
Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss the salad until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

6. Let the Flavors Meld

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the salad sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the quinoa to absorb the dressing.
Alternatively, you can refrigerate the salad for up to 2 hours if you prefer it chilled.

7. Serve and Enjoy!

Give the salad a final toss before serving.
Garnish with extra fresh herbs or lemon wedges for a pop of color.
Serve as a side dish, a light lunch, or a main course with added protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas.

Tips for Success

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
For a gluten-free option, ensure your quinoa is certified gluten-free.
Customize the salad by adding extras like avocado, feta cheese, or olives.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

This Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad is a refreshing, nutrient-packed dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Perfect for meal prep or a quick, healthy meal! 🌿✨

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 180kcal
Fat: 10g
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 20g

This Fresh Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad with a Citrus Twist is a must-try for anyone who loves bright, fresh flavors. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a summer gathering, this salad is sure to impress. Pin it for later and share it with your friends—it’s a recipe worth keeping!