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Crunchy Toasted Quinoa Salad

Dive into the flavors of summer with this refreshing Crunchy Toasted Quinoa Salad! Bursting with vibrant vegetables and crunchy textures, it's a nutritious meal that's perfect for backyard barbecues or light lunches. With its nutty quinoa, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon dressing, this salad not only pleases the palate but also dazzles the eye. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s sure to become a favorite at every gathering. Enjoy the best of summer in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

2 cups vegetable broth (or water)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1 carrot, grated

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup toasted almonds, roughly chopped

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Juice of 1 lemon

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Toast the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed quinoa and toast for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until it’s slightly golden and fragrant.

    Cook Quinoa: Add the vegetable broth (or water) to the toasted quinoa and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, fluff it with a fork and let it cool.

      Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and grate the carrot. Place all the chopped vegetables in a large mixing bowl.

        Mix the Salad: Once the quinoa has cooled, add it to the bowl of vegetables. Toss gently to combine.

          Add Flavor: Drizzle the lemon juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste. Add in the chopped parsley and toasted almonds, and fold everything gently until well mixed.

            Optional Feta: If using feta cheese, sprinkle it on top of the salad just before serving for added flavor and texture.

              Serve: Serve the salad fresh or refrigerate it for an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy as a light lunch or a colorful side dish!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings