Simple Healthy Recipes for Beginners: Quinoa Salad

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
2. Once cooked, remove the quinoa from heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese if using.
4. Add the cooled quinoa to the bowl with the vegetables.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad and toss gently to combine.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.