If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant and healthy dish packed with flavor, look no further than this zesty Quinoa Tabbouleh salad! With fluffy quinoa, refreshing herbs, and a splash of zesty lemon, this recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also keeps your healthy lifestyle on track. It’s a colorful addition to any meal and perfect for gatherings!
Budget Information
The total cost for this Quinoa Tabbouleh recipe is approximately $10.00, with a cost of about $1.25 per serving. Get ready for a delicious and budget-friendly dish that won’t break the bank!
Why This Recipe Works
This Quinoa Tabbouleh is more than just a pretty dish; it’s a flavor explosion in every bite! By swapping traditional bulgur with protein-packed quinoa, we create a nutritious powerhouse. It’s light, refreshing, and loaded with herbs like parsley and mint, which not only uplift the dish but also offers a refreshing aroma that beckons you to the table. Want a salad that you can serve at any occasion and that appeals to both health enthusiasts and skeptics alike? This one does the trick!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
– 1 cup quinoa ($3.00)
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth ($0.50)
– 1 large cucumber, diced ($1.00)
– 1 large tomato, diced ($0.75)
– 1/2 cup parsley, finely chopped ($0.75)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped ($0.75)
– 1/4 red onion, finely diced ($0.30)
– 1/4 cup olive oil ($1.50)
– Juice of 1 lemon ($0.50)
– Salt and pepper, to taste (minimal cost)
To make this salad easier on your budget or adjust to your pantry, feel free to substitute the cucumber with bell peppers or the tomato with avocado for a twist! You can even mix up the herbs if you have others on hand—cilantro or basil can work perfectly.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. It’s like giving it a good spa day! Once rinsed, place the quinoa in a medium-sized saucepan and add 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring this beauty to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed—your kitchen will start to smell incredible!
Step 2: While your quinoa is cooking, chop the cucumber, tomato, parsley, mint, and red onion. Allow the vibrant colors of these fresh ingredients to brighten your kitchen; it’s like a garden on your cutting board! Place these chopped ingredients in a large bowl together, feeling free to admire the rainbow hues you’ve just created.
Step 3: Once the quinoa is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. Fluff it up with a fork as it cools; this makes it light and airy—just the way we want our salad! While it cools, prepare your dressing by whisking together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Step 4: Add the cooled quinoa to the bowl with your chopped vegetables and herbs. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together. Get in there with your hands or use serving utensils; just be gentle so you don’t mash the tomatoes! Mmm, the aroma should be tantalizing by now.
Step 5: Taste your tabbouleh and adjust seasoning if needed. If you love a little extra zing, squeeze in more lemon juice or sprinkle in some more herbs. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. This dish improves with a little rest—just like you do after a long day!
Nutritional Facts
– Calories: 220
– Protein: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Total Fats: 10g
– Saturated Fat: 1.5g
– Fiber: 5g
– Sugar: 2g
– Sodium: 50mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
This Quinoa Tabbouleh will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead option. The flavors develop beautifully over time, so it’s perfect for meal prep! If you find it’s a bit dry after storage, add a splash of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon before serving to freshen it up.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tabbouleh as a refreshing side salad with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. It also works wonderfully as a light lunch on its own or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a clean, low-carb option. For an extra nod to flavor, try topping it with feta cheese or serving it alongside hummus and pita chips for an amazing Mediterranean feast!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
When selecting your herbs, opt for fresh over dried for maximum flavor and aroma. Also, don’t be shy about experimenting with add-ins; roasted chickpeas or crumbled feta can bring your salad to the next level. Lastly, if you love bold flavors, try adding a pinch of cumin or paprika to the dressing for an exciting kick!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after sitting for a bit, allowing the flavors to meld.
Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?
Of course! Bulgur, farro, or even diced cauliflower could work well if you’re looking for a different texture.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this salad perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
How long will leftovers last?
Stored in an airtight container, it will last about 4 days in the fridge.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent options to enhance the protein content.
