Tomato Quinoa Salad

It’s time to add another tasty quinoa recipe to our meal prep game! This Tomato Quinoa Salad is fast, flavorful, and easily made in advance for speedy lunches and sides for work, school, or home! Feel free to double this recipe if needed; it’s so easy to do!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can whip up this salad in just 22 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chickpeas and fiber from quinoa and tomatoes, this salad is a healthy choice.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of lime juice and avocado oil creates a refreshing dressing that complements the ingredients beautifully.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for an easy grab-and-go lunch. It stores well in the fridge!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or herbs to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mesh strainer or sieve
• Medium pot with lid
• Fork
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mesh strainer or sieve: Perfect for rinsing quinoa thoroughly to remove any bitterness.
• Medium pot with lid: Essential for cooking quinoa evenly, ensuring it becomes fluffy.
• Fork: Ideal for fluffing the cooked quinoa without mashing it.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1/2 cup dry quinoa
• 3/4 cup water
• 2-3 cups chopped/sliced tomato
• 15 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup chopped green onion

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from 2 limes)
• 2 TBSP avocado oil
• 1 clove garlic (smashed and minced)
• 1 TBSP fresh chopped parsley
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/8 tsp pepper
• Additional fresh chopped parsley (to taste)

How to Make Tomato Quinoa Salad

Step 1: Rinse and Toast Quinoa

First rinse and drain your quinoa using a mesh strainer or sieve. Bring a medium pot to medium heat and lightly toast the quinoa to remove any excess water. Stir as it toasts for just a few minutes. This step is optional but really adds to the nuttiness and fluff factor of the quinoa! Next, add your water, set burner to high, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer, covered with the lid slightly ajar, for 12-13 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 2: Prepare Remaining Ingredients

While the quinoa cooks, chop, slice, and prep the remaining ingredients.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

To make the dressing, combine avocado oil (or healthy oil of your choosing) with fresh lime juice, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Once your quinoa is ready, fluff with a fork and allow it to cool (I usually pop mine in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes). Then combine with tomatoes, green onion, chickpeas, and any extra parsley you’d like! I usually add 2-3 TBSP of extra parsley – I love the flavor! Toss salad with half of the dressing and dive in! Drizzle extra dressing on the salad as desired and feel free to add any additional seasoning to taste.

This Tomato Quinoa Salad is not just delicious; it’s also an excellent way to enjoy nutritious ingredients while keeping meal prep simple! Enjoy!

How to Serve Tomato Quinoa Salad

Tomato Quinoa Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you are serving it as a main course or as a side, these suggestions will elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it chilled for a refreshing summer meal that’s packed with protein and flavor.
• Pair with grilled chicken or turkey for a heartier option that complements the salad’s freshness.

As a Side Dish

• Accompany with roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.
• Serve alongside your favorite grilled meats, adding a zesty contrast to the savory flavors.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Divide into individual meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Pair with whole grain wraps or pita bread for a complete meal on busy days.

With Additional Toppings

• Sprinkle with feta cheese or avocado slices for added creaminess and richness.
• Add toasted nuts or seeds for an extra crunch and healthy fats.

How to Perfect Tomato Quinoa Salad

To make sure your Tomato Quinoa Salad is always delicious, keep these tips in mind.

• Rinse quinoa thoroughly: This removes the natural coating called saponin, which can make quinoa taste bitter.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and tweak the dressing according to your preference, adding more lime juice or salt if needed.
• Add fresh herbs: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or basil for unique flavor profiles.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad rest in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Use ripe tomatoes: Opt for fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best taste and texture in your salad.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato Quinoa Salad

If you’re looking to complement your Tomato Quinoa Salad, here are some great side dishes that pair well.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken in herbs and spices; grill until tender. A protein-rich pairing!
2. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies with olive oil and roast until caramelized. A colorful addition!
3. Garlic Bread: Crisped bread topped with garlic butter adds a warm touch alongside the salad.
4. Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt dip made with cucumber and spices; refreshing after each bite of salad.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with rice, beans, and spices; they add an appealing presentation and hearty flavor.
6. Quinoa Patties: Made from leftover quinoa mixed with spices; these patties offer a fun twist on eating quinoa!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Tomato Quinoa Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Quinoa: Cooking quinoa too long can result in a mushy texture. Stick to the recommended cooking time for perfectly fluffy quinoa.
• Skipping the Rinse: Not rinsing quinoa before cooking can leave a bitter taste. Always rinse it under cold water to remove the saponins.
• Not Letting It Cool: Adding warm quinoa to your salad can wilt fresh ingredients. Allow it to cool before mixing for the best results.
• Underseasoning: A lack of seasoning can make your salad bland. Taste and adjust the flavors with lime juice, salt, and pepper as needed.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Fresh and high-quality ingredients will elevate your dish. Choose ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs for maximum flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Tomato Quinoa Salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Tomato Quinoa Salad

• It’s best not to freeze this salad as fresh ingredients may lose their texture upon thawing.
• However, if necessary, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Tomato Quinoa Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Tomato Quinoa Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch and flavor.

How do I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the quinoa and chop the veggies in advance. Store them separately until you are ready to combine them with the dressing.

Is Tomato Quinoa Salad gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this salad suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How long does Tomato Quinoa Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 3 days.

What type of tomatoes should I use?

Any variety works well! Cherry tomatoes offer sweetness while larger types like Roma provide juiciness.

Final Thoughts

This Tomato Quinoa Salad is not only vibrant but also packed with nutrients. Its versatility allows you to customize with different vegetables and dressings based on your preferences. Give it a try for a refreshing side dish or a hearty lunch option!