Are you ready to elevate your salad game with a dish that's not only bursting with flavor but also packed with nutrients? Meet the Cilantro Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas and Spinach—a vibrant, healthy delight that will tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body! This quick and easy recipe takes just 25 minutes to prepare, making it the perfect go-to for busy weeknights or a refreshing lunch. With its delightful combination of fluffy quinoa, protein-rich chickpeas, and fresh greens, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Dive into this recipe and discover how simple ingredients can create a sensational meal that’s both satisfying and guilt-free!
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This helps remove the natural coating called saponin, which can give quinoa a bitter taste.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed all the broth and is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the chickpeas. Open the can of chickpeas, drain them in a colander, and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, and fresh spinach. The heat from the quinoa will slightly wilt the spinach, enhancing its flavor.
- Add the chopped cilantro to the bowl, followed by the olive oil and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Mix again to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can also refrigerate it for a bit if you prefer a chilled salad.
- Serve the cilantro quinoa salad in bowls or on a platter. Enjoy your healthy and vibrant meal!
Tips
- Rinse the Quinoa: Always rinse your quinoa under cold water before cooking to remove the saponin coating, which can impart a bitter flavor. This step is crucial for achieving a deliciously nutty taste.
- Use Vegetable Broth: For an added depth of flavor, cook your quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water. This simple swap enhances the overall taste of your salad.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes after mixing, or refrigerate it for a short time before serving. This resting period lets the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more delightful.
- Customize Your Greens: Feel free to mix in other greens like arugula or kale for added texture and nutrition. You can also throw in some diced bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
- Add a Protein Boost: If you want to make this salad even heartier, consider adding grilled chicken, feta cheese, or avocado. These additions can transform it into a complete meal.
- Experiment with Dressings: While olive oil and lemon juice are perfect for this salad, don’t hesitate to experiment with different dressings. A balsamic vinaigrette or tahini dressing can provide a unique twist.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad stores well in the fridge, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
