Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas

This Mediterranean-inspired quinoa salad brings together protein-rich quinoa, chickpeas, and vibrant vegetables in a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect for busy weeknights, this refreshing dish has become my go-to option for both everyday meals and special gatherings where I need something healthy yet impressive.

I first created this salad when hosting a summer gathering where I needed something that could sit out without wilting. Now it's requested at every family potluck, and I always keep the ingredients on hand for quick lunches.

Ingredients

• Quinoa: Provides a complete protein with a delightful nutty flavor and fluffy texture when properly cooked
• Chickpeas: Add heartiness and additional protein while creating a satisfying bite
• Roasted red peppers: Bring sweet smoky notes without requiring any roasting on your part
• Lemon juice: Creates brightness that makes all the flavors pop
• Smoked paprika: Adds depth and a subtle warmth that elevates the entire dish
• Feta or goat cheese: Contributes creaminess and a tangy counterpoint to the other ingredients
• Toasted nuts: Provide essential crunch and richness that makes the salad feel complete
• Fresh herbs: Infuse the salad with aromatic notes that make it taste garden fresh

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the quinoa:

Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine mesh strainer until water runs clear this removes the natural saponin coating that can leave a bitter taste. Combine with water and salt in a saucepan and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to maintain a simmer for about 15 minutes or until the spiral germ becomes visible and most liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat cover and let steam for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Transfer to a mixing bowl while still slightly warm.

Create the dressing:

Combine olive oil fresh lemon juice smoked paprika and salt in a small bowl whisking until fully emulsified. The warm quinoa will better absorb the dressing so pour about two thirds of this mixture over the quinoa while it is still slightly warm and stir gently to incorporate. This allows the grains to soak up all those wonderful flavors.

Assemble the salad:

Add chickpeas roasted red peppers arugula fresh herbs and most of the nuts and cheese to the seasoned quinoa. Fold everything together with a gentle hand ensuring even distribution without crushing the more delicate ingredients. The combination creates a beautiful array of textures from the tender quinoa to the creamy cheese and crunchy nuts.

Final touches:

Drizzle remaining dressing over the salad to taste and toss gently. Top with reserved cheese and nuts for visual appeal and textural contrast. Allow the salad to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to let flavors meld together perfectly. For best results refrigerate for a few hours which transforms it from good to exceptional.

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My favorite ingredient in this salad is definitely the smoked paprika. I discovered it years ago on a trip to Spain and have been incorporating it into my cooking ever since. It adds such a distinctive warmth that regular paprika simply cannot match. My family knows when I've skipped it as they can immediately taste the difference.

Make It Your Own

This quinoa salad welcomes customization based on what you have available. Try swapping roasted sweet potatoes for the red peppers in fall or adding fresh cucumber and tomatoes in summer. The flavor profile works beautifully with Mediterranean herbs like oregano and thyme or can take on a more Middle Eastern character with mint and za'atar. Listen to your taste buds and experiment with what speaks to you.

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Storage Tips

The beauty of this salad is how well it keeps. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors actually improve after a day as they have time to meld together. If making ahead for meal prep consider adding the nuts just before serving to maintain their crunch. For best flavor allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving from the refrigerator.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete protein packed meal. It also makes an impressive addition to a mezze platter with hummus olives and warm pita bread. For a beautiful presentation consider serving in a shallow bowl lined with additional fresh greens and garnished with extra herbs and a light drizzle of good olive oil. The vibrant colors make it as beautiful as it is delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What is the best way to cook quinoa for this dish?

Rinse the quinoa to remove any bitterness, then simmer with water and salt until tender. Let it sit covered for 5 minutes, fluff with a fork, and allow it to cool before mixing.

→ Can I substitute the arugula with another green?

Yes, spinach, kale, or mixed greens are great alternatives to arugula. Adjust based on your flavor preference.

→ What can I use instead of feta cheese?

You can substitute feta with goat cheese or a plant-based cheese alternative for a dairy-free option.

→ How do I toast the nuts for this salad?

Spread the nuts on a baking sheet, bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until fragrant, then transfer to a cutting board to cool.

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made up to 4 hours in advance. Refrigerate it and let the flavors meld for a more robust taste.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, ensuring a delicious and ready-to-go meal.