Minty Cucumber-Quinoa Salad is a refreshing and healthy salad that combines the lightness of cucumber and the nuttiness of quinoa with a burst of fresh mint flavor. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups water
- 2 cucumbers, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Cook Quinoa:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff the quinoa with a fork, and let it cool.
- Prepare Cucumbers and Onions:
- While the quinoa is cooking, dice the cucumbers and finely chop the red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Chop Herbs:
- Chop the fresh mint and parsley leaves and add them to the mixing bowl with the cucumbers and onions.
- Make Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, honey or maple syrup (if using), salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Once the quinoa has cooled, add it to the mixing bowl with the diced cucumbers, chopped onions, and herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad.
- Toss and Season:
- Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
- Add Feta (Optional):
- If you like, you can sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad for an extra burst of flavor.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the Minty Cucumber-Quinoa Salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Serve it chilled as a refreshing salad.
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and fresh flavors. It’s a great way to enjoy quinoa and cucumbers while adding a touch of minty brightness to your meal. Enjoy!