Ingredients
Salad Ingredients








Dressing Ingredients












Instructions
Step 1
Start by rinsing 100 grams of quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. Cook it in a saucepan with 200 milliliters (around ¾ cup) of water over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low and cover for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
Step 2
While the quinoa is cooking, prepare your vegetables. Finely chop 1 medium red onion and grate or finely dice 1 medium carrot. Choose your favorite fresh herbs and chop a handful of (basil, cilantro, dill). Set everything aside in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of honey, 0.5 tablespoon of peanut butter, 0.5 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined.
Step 4
Add the cooked quinoa to the bowl with the chopped vegetables and herbs. Pour the dressing over the mixture, then gently toss everything together to ensure all ingredients are well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 5
Your nutritious vegan quinoa salad is ready to serve! This dish is perfect as a light lunch or dinner. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Enjoy your healthy meal!
Servings
Equipment
This is essential for cooking the quinoa. Make sure it's large enough to accommodate the water and quinoa without boiling over.
Use a sharp knife to chop the vegetables easily and a sturdy cutting board for safety.



A good-sized mixing bowl will help you combine all the ingredients thoroughly. Look for one that’s easy to handle and clean.



Accurate measurements of the sauce ingredients are key to a balanced flavor. Invest in a set of measuring spoons.



Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute quinoa with green lentils or buckwheat, which are equally nutritious and gluten-free. 🍲
- Vegan Protein Boost: For a more substantial meal, toss in chickpeas, tofu chunks, or a scoop of hummus for added creaminess.
- Flavor Fun: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, dill, or arugula for a fresh twist. 🌿
Faq
- What is quinoa?
Quinoa is a nutritious grain that is gluten-free, high in protein, and loaded with essential amino acids.
- How do I cook quinoa perfectly?
Rinse 100g of quinoa under cold water. Combine it with double the amount of water in a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Then, simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Absolutely! You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- How can I add more flavor to the dressing?
Try adding garlic powder or fresh herbs to the dressing for an extra kick!
- What's the best way to serve it?
This salad tastes amazing chilled, and you can serve it as a side dish or a main course!
- Can I substitute the ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables and dressings to make it your own!