Healthy Quinoa Salad with Citrus Dressing

Calories

290 kcal

Instructions:

1. Cook the quinoa: Rinse quinoa well. Boil 2 cups of water, add quinoa, reduce the flame and let it simmer covered for about 15 minutes until all water is absorbed. Let it cool completely and fluff with a fork.

2. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, honey, olive oil, salt, pepper, and cumin powder.

3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa with all the chopped veggies, chickpeas, and herbs. Pour the citrus dressing over and toss gently.

4. Top with crunch: Sprinkle roasted peanuts or seeds on top for added crunch and healthy fats.

5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Health Benefits:

Quinoa is a complete protein and gluten-free grain—great for muscle building and energy.

Chickpeas add plant-based protein and fiber, keeping you full for longer.

Veggies bring in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Citrus juice helps with digestion and immunity.

Olive oil & seeds provide healthy fats that are good for heart and brain.

Ingredients

For the Salad:
1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
2 cups water
1/2 cup boiled chickpeas (kabuli chana)
1/2 cup chopped cucumber
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (or chopped regular tomatoes)
1/4 cup grated carrot
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh coriander or mint (or both)
1 small green chili (optional, finely chopped)
1 tbsp roasted peanuts or seeds (pumpkin/sunflower)
For the Citrus Dressing:
2 tbsp fresh orange juice
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey or jaggery powder
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
A pinch of roasted cumin powder (jeera)