Craving a vibrant and healthy salad that's bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Quinoa Tabouli Salad! A delightful twist on the classic, this recipe replaces traditional bulgur wheat with nutritious quinoa, offering a boost of protein and fiber. This refreshing salad is perfect for a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or a healthy addition to your meal prep routine. It's packed with fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The best part? It's incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks.
This gluten-free quinoa tabouli salad is also highly adaptable – feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables and herbs. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let's get started with the simple, step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Whisk
Ingredients
- Quinoa: 1 cup
- Water: 2 cups
- Parsley
- Mint
- Garbanzo beans (Chickpeas)
- Scallions
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Feta cheese
- Lemon: 1 large
- Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tsp
- Garlic
- Salt
- Black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Quinoa and Herbs
- Start by cooking the quinoa. Use a ratio of 1 part quinoa to 2 parts water. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, add 1 cup of quinoa, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Finely chop fresh parsley and mint. Store leftover herbs wrapped in a wet paper towel in a plastic bag in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Once the quinoa is cooked (it will become translucent with a visible germ), transfer it to a large bowl.
Step 2. Combine Salad Ingredients
- Add the chopped herbs, garbanzo beans, chopped scallions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and crumbled feta cheese to the quinoa.
Step 3. Make the Lemon-Herb Dressing
- Juice one large lemon (about 1/4 cup), whisk in 3 teaspoons of olive oil, chopped garlic, salt, and pepper.
Step 4. Dress and Serve
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Serve the salad in a bowl.
Read more: Zaalouk Recipe: Easy Moroccan Eggplant Dip or Salad
Tips
- For richer flavor, cook quinoa in chicken or vegetable stock instead of water and add aromatics like garlic or lemongrass.
- Using fresh herbs is essential for the best flavor.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 500-600
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbs: 70-80g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. What can I substitute for the parsley?
Feel free to experiment! Mint, cilantro, or a mix of both work well as substitutes or additions to the parsley.
3. Is quinoa gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this salad a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
This Quinoa Tabouli Salad is a testament to the power of simple, fresh ingredients combined to create a truly exceptional dish. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful salad as a standalone meal or a delightful accompaniment to your favorite proteins. We hope you savor every bite!