Quinoa and Chickpea Salad

A refreshing and flavorful salad that's perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The quinoa provides a hearty base, while the chickpeas, red onion, cucumber, bell pepper, parsley, and mint add a variety of textures and flavors. The olive oil and lemon juice dressing ties everything together, creating a salad that's both satisfying and refreshing.

This salad was inspired by a trip to the Middle East, where I had the pleasure of trying many different types of salads. I was particularly impressed by the salads that used quinoa as a base, as they were both hearty and refreshing. When I returned home, I decided to create my own version of a quinoa salad, using ingredients that I could easily find at my local grocery store. The result is this salad, which has become a favorite of mine and my family.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 1 15-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions

1. Cook quinoa according to package directions.
2. Combine quinoa, chickpeas, red onion, cucumber, bell pepper, parsley, mint, and olive oil in a large bowl.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Why It Works

• The combination of quinoa, chickpeas, and vegetables provides a good balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• The olive oil and lemon juice dressing adds a light and flavorful touch to the salad.
• The salad can be served immediately or chilled for later, making it a great option for meal prep.