This quinoa salad recipe is as delicious as it is nutritious.
How to Make Quinoa Salad
You'll find a detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions in the recipe below, but let's go over the basics:
Quinoa Salad Ingredients
These are the ingredients you’ll need to make this healthy quinoa salad recipe:
- Quinoa and water: Cook one cup of quinoa in two cups of water,
- Oil: The dressing starts with extra-virgin olive oil.
- Limes: The juice of two limes adds brightness to the salad.
- Seasonings: Season the quinoa salad with ground cumin, salt, red pepper flakes, fresh cilantro, and black pepper.
- Cherry tomatoes and green onions: Halved cherry tomatoes and chopped green onions give the quinoa salad pops of color.
- Black beans: You’ll need a drained can of black beans for this protein-packed quinoa salad.
How Do You Make Quinoa Salad?
Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect when you make this homemade quinoa salad:
- Cook the quinoa.
- Make the dressing.
- Combine the quinoa with the tomatoes, black beans, and green onions.
- Toss the salad with the dressing, then stir in the remaining ingredients.
Cook’s Note
- If you're not vegan, add even more protein by adding chunks of chicken or turkey.
- This salad tastes great right away and even better the next day when all the flavors have had the chance to marry.
Test Kitchen Tips
“Quinoa salad is the perfect side dish to make when you’re looking for something different,” according to culinary developer Nicole McLaughlin (a.k.a. NicoleMcMom). Here are some of her best quinoa salad tips:
- “When it comes to cooking our quinoa, the same ratio applies as it does to rice (two parts water to one part grain),” according to Nicole. “The difference is that we can bring them to a boil together.”
- You’ll know the quinoa is done when it swells and begins to burst slightly, Nicole says.
- “Quinoa itself doesn’t have a ton of flavor,” says Nicole. “But it takes on whatever flavors you add in. That’s why I like to be generous when dressing quinoa salad.”
How to Store Quinoa Salad
Store the quinoa salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about five days.
Can You Freeze Quinoa Salad?
Yes! You can freeze the quinoa salad for up to six months. Thaw the salad in the refrigerator overnight.
Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise
“My new favorite quinoa recipe,” says Jennifer Gidcumb Hall. “I like it best chilled, especially after flavors have time to really set in.”
“I make this recipe exactly as written and have for years,” according to Chris. “I love it hot or cold. Occasionally, I will add some cooked chicken, but that’s it! Perfect just as-is.”
“Very good, light, and delicious,” raves Cheri. “I didn't change a thing and would make again.”
Editorial contributions by Corey Williams
Ingredients
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2 cups water
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1 cup quinoa
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¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
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2 limes, juiced
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2 teaspoons ground cumin
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more to taste
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1 ½ cups halved cherry tomatoes
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1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
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5 green onions, finely chopped
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¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
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salt and ground black pepper to taste
Directions
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Bring water and quinoa to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until quinoa is tender and water has been absorbed, 10 to 15 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
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Meanwhile, whisk olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and red pepper flakes together in a small bowl.
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
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Combine quinoa, tomatoes, black beans, and green onions in a large bowl. Pour dressing over quinoa mixture; toss to coat. Stir in cilantro; season with salt and black pepper.
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
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Serve immediately or chill salad in the refrigerator.
DOTDASH MEREDITH FOOD STUDIOS
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
270 | Calories |
12g | Fat |
34g | Carbs |
9g | Protein |
Nutrition Facts | |
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Servings Per Recipe 6 | |
Calories 270 | |
% Daily Value * | |
Total Fat 12g | 15% |
Saturated Fat 1g | 7% |
Sodium 675mg | 29% |
Total Carbohydrate 34g | 12% |
Dietary Fiber 8g | 30% |
Total Sugars 2g | |
Protein 9g | 18% |
Vitamin C 15mg | 16% |
Calcium 51mg | 4% |
Iron 2mg | 12% |
Potassium 403mg | 9% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.