Refreshing Quinoa Salad

12 servings

30 minutes

Refreshing quinoa salad is a light and nutritious dish from Turkish cuisine that values fresh vegetables and healthy grains. Quinoa, rich in protein and with a mild nutty flavor, pairs with crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic red onions for a harmony of textures. Pine nuts add a delicate creaminess, while lemon juice and zest provide refreshing acidity. Dressed with olive oil and garnished with chopped parsley, this salad is perfect as a standalone dish or as a side for meat and fish. Its vibrant colors and rich flavor make it an excellent choice for summer lunches and light dinners.

Energy value per serving

• Calories: 237.4
• Proteins: 6.4g
• Fats: 12.9g
• Carbohydrates: 22.1g

Ingredients

• Quinoa: 1.5 glass
• Pine nuts: 150 g
• Cucumbers: 2 pc
• Tomatoes: 3 pc
• Red onion: 120 g
• Chopped parsley: 35 g
• Olive oil: 0.3 glass
• Lemon juice: 3 tbsp
• Grated lemon zest: 2 tsp

Cooking steps

1. Bring 2 liters of salted water to a boil. Add quinoa, cover with a lid, and reduce the heat to medium. Cook for 12-14 minutes until the quinoa is tender and 'tails' appear on the grains.

   Required ingredients:

   • Quinoa: 1.5 glass

2. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Spread the pine nuts on a baking sheet and roast for 3-4 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool and transfer to a large serving bowl.

   Required ingredients:

   • Pine nuts: 150 g

3. Drain the water from the pot with quinoa, rinse the grains with cold water. Drain the water. Transfer the quinoa to a bowl with pine nuts, add cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and parsley.

   Required ingredients:

   • Quinoa: 1.5 glass
   • Pine nuts: 150 g
   • Cucumbers: 2 pieces
   • Tomatoes: 3 pieces
   • Red onion: 120 g
   • Chopped parsley: 35 g

4. Add oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Add salt and pepper to taste.

   Required ingredients:

   • Olive oil: 0.3 glass
   • Lemon juice: 3 tablespoons
   • Grated lemon zest: 2 teaspoons