Zesty Quinoa Salad

If you’re looking for new healthy recipes, as you make your new years resolution to get back in shape, this Zesty Quinoa Salad might be the perfect option for you!

This salad combines quinoa with fresh bell peppers, cucumbers, onions, pecans, feta cheese, fresh cilantro, garbanzo beans, and a zesty dressing, making it a light and refreshing option that you’ll love!

Quinoa:

Quinoa is a nutritious and versatile grain that has gained popularity in recent years for its high protein content and versatility in the kitchen. It’s a great option for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, and can be used in a variety of dishes from breakfast bowls to salads.

Quinoa is high in protein and contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. It’s also a good source of fiber, iron, and magnesium.

Bell peppers:

Bell peppers are an excellent source of a variety of nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and dietary fiber. They are low in calories, making them a good choice for people who are trying to maintain a healthy weight.

Cucumbers:

Cucumbers are a nutritious and refreshing food that can provide a number of potential health benefits when included in a healthy diet. Made up of about 96% water, they can help you to keep hydrated. They are also low in calories. Cucumbers are a good source of a number of nutrients, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium.

Garbanzo beans(or Chick Peas):

Garbanzo beans are an excellent source of protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues in the body. These beans are also high in fiber, which can help to support healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.

Onions:

Onions are a good source of a number of nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. These nutrients are important for maintaining overall health and well-being. Onions contain compounds called flavonoids, which may help to reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Onions are low in calories and high in fiber, which may help to support weight loss by keeping you feeling full and satisfied.

Pecans:

Pecans are a good source of monounsaturated fats, which may help to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. They are also a good source of antioxidants, which may help to protect brain cells from damage caused by free radicals and may improve cognitive function. Pecans are high in fiber, which may help to support weight loss.

Feta:

Feta is a good source of calcium, which is great for healthy bones and teeth. It’s also high in protein, which may help you to feel full and consume less food. It is important to note that feta is high in saturated fats, eating in moderation is recommended.

Cilantro:

Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a wonderful and fragrant herb! It is high in fiber, and low in calories, making it an excellent option for aiding in weight-loss. Some studies suggest that cilantro may help improve cognitive function.

Olive oil:

Olive oil has monounsaturated fats, which may help to lower cholesterol. Some studies suggest that it may help with weight-loss, with a calorie-controlled diet. It has antioxidants in it that may help protect the sin from damage caused by free radicals. Some claim it might even promote healthy bacteria in the gut, improving digestion.

Honey:

Aside from being deliciously sweet, honey is a wonderful product. It contains antioxidants, as well as prebiotics(fibers that help grow beneficial bacteria in the gut, to improve gut functionality). Honey has been traditionally used to help relieve cold and flu symptom, and has also been used to help treat wounds and may help to speed up the healing process.

Lemon juice:

Lemon juice is an excellent source of vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps to support the immune system. It is low in calories and has been traditionally used to help support weight loss.

Red wine vinegar:

Red wine vinegar is high in antioxidants, and low in calories. Some people believe that the acidity of red wine vinegar may help to boost the metabolism and burn fat. Though there isn’t much in this recipe, the rich, complex flavors of red wine vinegar add a wonderful kick to this delightful salad.

Garlic:

Garlic contains vitamin c, manganese, and vitamin b6, all of which are important for maintaining your over-all health. It may have anti-inflammatory properties, and studies suggest that it may help lower cholesterol, as well as improve heart health.

All these ingredients come together beautifully, creating this wonderful and refreshing dish. Let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients:

• Water
• Quinoa
• Red bell pepper
• Yellow bell pepper
• Cucumber
• Purple Onion
• Pecans
• Garbanzo beans(also known as Chick Peas)
• Feta
• Cilantro
• Olive Oil
• Lemon juice
• Honey
• Minced garlic
• Salt
• Pepper

1. To prepare the quinoa, rinse it in a fine mesh strainer under cold water. This helps to remove any bitterness and improve the texture of the grain. Add the quinoa and water to a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the water has been absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside to cool.

2. While the quinoa is cooking, dice your vegetables and strain and rinse your garbanzo beans.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine prepared quinoa, red and yellow peppers, cucumber, onion, pecans, garbanzo beans, and feta.

4. Finely chop your cilantro, mixing into the salad well.

5. In a glass bowl or liquid measuring cup, combine lemon juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper, and whisk together well.

6. Pour the dressing over the mixed ingredients, mixing it well. If necessary, add more salt and pepper, to taste.

Serve this zesty quinoa salad immediately, or refrigerate it for later.

This salad is a healthy and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day. It’s perfect for packing in a lunch box or serving as a side dish at any meal.