Zesty Quinoa Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

Zesty Quinoa Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

This refreshing and vibrant quinoa salad combines fresh vegetables and a tangy citrus vinaigrette, making it perfect for a light lunch or a side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 large cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Feta cheese for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the quinoa, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, cucumber, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and mint.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, orange zest, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the quinoa salad and toss well to combine.
5. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired.