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Easy Quinoa Salad for One

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A quick, fresh, and satisfying single-serving quinoa salad perfect for solo meals, made with simple ingredients and a bright lemon-olive oil dressing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • ¼ cup (45 g) dry quinoa
  • ½ cup (120 ml) water
  • ¼ cup diced cucumber, peeled if preferred
  • ¼ cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon finely diced red onion (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • Pinch of salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional add-ins: 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
  • Optional add-ins: 1 tablespoon toasted nuts or seeds (e.g., walnuts or pumpkin seeds)
  • Optional add-ins: ¼ diced avocado

Instructions

  1. Rinse the quinoa: Place ¼ cup (45 g) of dry quinoa in a fine mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water for about 30 seconds. Drain well.
  2. Cook the quinoa: Transfer rinsed quinoa to a small saucepan and add ½ cup (120 ml) water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for about 15 minutes or until water is absorbed and quinoa is tender.
  3. Let quinoa rest: Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff with a fork to separate the grains.
  4. Prepare the vegetables: While quinoa cooks, dice ¼ cup cucumber, halve ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, finely chop 1 tablespoon red onion (if using), and chop 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or cilantro.
  5. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Combine salad: In a medium mixing bowl, add the fluffed quinoa, chopped veggies, and herbs. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  7. Add optional extras: If using, sprinkle crumbled feta, toasted nuts, or diced avocado, then give a final toss.
  8. Serve: Enjoy immediately, or chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes if you prefer it cold.

Notes

Rinse quinoa thoroughly to avoid bitterness. Use fresh lemon juice and good quality olive oil for best flavor. Fluff quinoa with a fork after cooking to keep it light. Optional add-ins like feta, nuts, or avocado add texture and flavor. Cook quinoa in advance to save time.

Nutrition

Keywords: quinoa salad, single serving, easy salad, healthy lunch, quick recipe, gluten-free, vegetarian

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/easy-quinoa-salad-for-one-recipe-perfect-fresh-single-serving/