Quinoa salad

Vibrant and Healthy Quinoa Salad

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Who wouldn't want a salad that is not only an explosion of colors but also a source of essential nutrients? Quinoa salad is the perfect choice for a light lunch, a delicious side dish, or a healthy dinner. With fresh ingredients and quick preparation, this simple recipe will not only impress you but also give you an energy boost thanks to the protein-rich quinoa.

A bit of history
Quinoa, known among many cultures as "Inca gold" due to its nutritional value, is a seed that has been cultivated for over 5,000 years. It is an excellent source of complete protein, containing all essential amino acids, making it a staple ingredient in vegetarian and vegan diets. This salad will not only fill your stomach but also nourish your soul, bringing a touch of freshness in every bite.

Ingredients
- 100 g quinoa
- 1 small beetroot (approximately 80 g)
- 1 ripe avocado
- 4 fresh radishes
- 1 medium cucumber
- 6 cherry tomatoes
- 3 green onions
- A handful of fresh parsley leaves
- Salt, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the quinoa
Start by rinsing the quinoa thoroughly. Use a fine sieve and rinse the seeds under cold running water for a few minutes. This step is essential to remove saponins, which can give a bitter taste. Once rinsed, place the quinoa in a pot with salted water (about double the volume of quinoa) and bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer covered for 12-15 minutes, until the water is absorbed and the quinoa becomes fluffy.

2. Preparing the vegetables
While the quinoa is cooking, take care of the vegetables. If using raw beetroot, boil it separately in a pot of water for about 30-40 minutes until tender. Once the beetroot is ready, you can peel and dice it. If using pre-cooked beetroot, you can skip to the next step.

- Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and dice the flesh.
- Wash the radishes, remove the leaves, and slice them thinly.
- Peel the cucumber and cut it into slices or cubes, as preferred.
- Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half.
- Wash the green onions, trim the ends, and slice them into rounds.

3. Assembling the salad
After the quinoa is cooked, drain it and let it cool for a few minutes. In a large bowl, combine the quinoa with all the prepared vegetables: beetroot, avocado, radishes, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and green onions.

4. Seasoning
Add salt to taste, lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil. Gently mix everything, being careful not to mash the avocado. Add the chopped parsley and mix again.

5. Serving
The quinoa salad is served cold, perfect for warm summer days or as a refreshing side dish at a festive meal. It can be enjoyed on its own or alongside a protein source, such as grilled chicken or fish.

Helpful tips
- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or grated carrots, for an extra splash of color. You can also experiment with different types of dressings, such as a yogurt sauce with dill or a balsamic dressing.
- Storage: The quinoa salad keeps well in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days, making it ideal for meal prep.
- Nutritional benefits: Quinoa is rich in protein, fiber, and B vitamins, making it an excellent choice for those looking to improve their diet. Avocado adds healthy fats, and beetroot is a rich source of antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions
- What other ingredients can I add for a different flavor?
You can add feta cheese or olives for a saltier flavor, or nuts and seeds for extra crunch.

- Is quinoa salad suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This recipe is completely vegan, but you can adapt the ingredients to your preferences.

- What drinks pair well with quinoa salad?
A refreshing lemonade or unsweetened green tea are excellent choices that perfectly complement this healthy salad.

Dreaming of a meal full of color, flavor, and health? Quinoa salad is the ideal solution! Try this recipe and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: 100 g quinoa, 1 small red beet (80 g), 1 avocado, 4 radishes, 1 cucumber, 6 cherry tomatoes, 3 green onions, parsley leaves, salt, lemon, oil