Ina Garten Quinoa Salad Recipe
The Ina Garten Quinoa Salad Recipe is fresh, healthy and full of flavor. This salad is colorful and perfect for lunch or dinner. Many people love the Ina Garten Quinoa Salad Recipe because it is easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or almonds
Instructions
Cook the Quinoa
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer 15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
Cool the Quinoa
- Transfer cooked quinoa to a large mixing bowl. Let it cool slightly before adding vegetables to prevent wilting.
Prepare the Vegetables
- While quinoa cools, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion and parsley. Place them in the large mixing bowl with the quinoa.
Add Cheese and Nuts
- Add crumbled feta cheese and optional toasted pine nuts or almonds to the quinoa and vegetables. Toss gently to combine evenly.
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
Taste and Adjust
- Taste the salad and adjust salt, pepper or lemon juice if needed. The flavors should be bright and balanced.
Serve Fresh
- Serve the salad immediately or chill in the fridge for 20–30 minutes to let the flavors blend. Enjoy as a main dish or side.
Notes
- Rinse quinoa well to remove bitterness
- Use fresh, crisp vegetables for best flavor
- Let quinoa cool before adding vegetables
- Toast nuts for extra crunch
- Adjust lemon juice and salt to taste
- Serve chilled or at room temperature