Tomato Quinoa Salad

It’s time to add another tasty quinoa recipe to our meal prep game! This Tomato Quinoa Salad is fast, flavorful, and easily made in advance for speedy lunches and sides for work, school, or home! Feel free to double this recipe if needed; it’s so easy to do!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Tomato Quinoa Salad comes together in just 22 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of tomatoes, lime juice, and spices creates a vibrant flavor profile that excites your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main dish, a side salad, or even pack it for lunch. It fits any occasion!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chickpeas and quinoa, this salad promotes a nutritious diet.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Tomato Quinoa Salad, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mesh strainer
• Small pot
• Fork
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mesh strainer: Ensures the quinoa is thoroughly rinsed before cooking, enhancing its nutty flavor.
• Small pot: Ideal for cooking quinoa; the compact size helps maintain even cooking.
• Fork: Fluffing the cooked quinoa with a fork prevents it from becoming mushy.

Ingredients

For the Quinoa Base

• 1/2 cup dry quinoa
• 3/4 cup water

For the Salad Mix

• 2-3 cups chopped/sliced tomato
• 15 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup chopped green onion

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from 2 limes)
• 2 TBSP avocado oil
• 1 clove garlic (smashed and minced)
• 1 TBSP fresh chopped parsley
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/8 tsp pepper
• additional fresh chopped parsley (to taste)

How to Make Tomato Quinoa Salad

Step 1: Rinse and Toast the Quinoa

First rinse and drain your quinoa using a mesh strainer or sieve. Bring a small pot to medium heat and lightly toast the quinoa to remove any excess water. Stir as it toasts for just a few minutes. This step is optional but really adds to the nuttiness and fluff factor of the quinoa! Next, add your water, set burner to high, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer, covered with the lid slightly ajar, for 12-13 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 2: Prepare Other Ingredients

While the quinoa cooks, chop, slice, and prep the remaining ingredients. This will save you time when you’re ready to assemble your salad.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

To make the dressing, combine avocado oil (or healthy oil of your choosing) with fresh lime juice, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, sea salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Once your quinoa is ready, fluff with a fork and allow it to cool (I usually pop mine in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes). Then combine with tomatoes, green onion, chickpeas, and any extra parsley you’d like! I usually add 2-3 TBSP of extra parsley – I love the flavor! Toss salad with half of the dressing. Drizzle extra dressing on top as desired and feel free to add any additional seasoning to taste.

How to Serve Tomato Quinoa Salad

This Tomato Quinoa Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a main dish, side, or snack, there are plenty of options to elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve chilled: This salad can be a refreshing main course when served cold.
• Add proteins: Top it with grilled chicken or turkey for added protein and flavor.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled vegetables: The fresh flavors of the salad complement the smoky taste of grilled veggies perfectly.
• Serve alongside hummus: This combination works great for a light lunch or appetizer.

For Meal Prep

• Pack in containers: Divide into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Include various toppings: Keep your toppings separate until serving to maintain freshness.

How to Perfect Tomato Quinoa Salad

To ensure your Tomato Quinoa Salad is always a hit, consider these helpful tips:

• Rinse the quinoa: Rinsing removes bitterness and enhances flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and herbs will make the salad more vibrant and tasty.
• Season generously: Adjust salt and pepper to suit your palate; seasoning brings out the flavors.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for an hour allows flavors to meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato Quinoa Salad

Pairing your Tomato Quinoa Salad with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers add protein and pair perfectly with the freshness of the salad.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables provides depth and warmth to your meal.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice or grains enhance both flavor and presentation.
4. Chickpea Patties: These crispy patties offer a delightful crunch and protein boost alongside the salad.
5. Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based dip that balances out the spices in your meal.
6. Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini Boats: For an extra dose of quinoa goodness, try these flavorful stuffed zucchinis.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tomato Quinoa Salad, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the Rinse: Not rinsing quinoa can result in a bitter taste. Always rinse it well before cooking to remove the saponins.
• Overcooking Quinoa: Cooking quinoa too long leads to a mushy texture. Aim for 12-13 minutes for perfectly fluffy quinoa.
• Ignoring Seasoning: A bland salad is unappealing. Be sure to season well with salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance flavors.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Mixing warm quinoa with cold vegetables can dull the flavors. Let your quinoa cool slightly before combining it with other ingredients.
• Not Adding Enough Dressing: Insufficient dressing can make your salad dry. Don’t be shy—use enough dressing for a vibrant flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Tomato Quinoa Salad

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 1 month for optimal freshness.

Reheating Tomato Quinoa Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed through, stirring between sessions.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Tomato Quinoa Salad healthy?

Tomato Quinoa Salad is packed with protein from quinoa and chickpeas, plus vitamins from fresh tomatoes and herbs, making it a nutritious choice.

Can I customize my Tomato Quinoa Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers, or include spices that you enjoy for added flavor.

How do I store leftover Tomato Quinoa Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Is this Tomato Quinoa Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep as it holds up well and can be made in advance for quick lunches or dinners.

Final Thoughts

Tomato Quinoa Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a light main course, it’s sure to impress! Give this recipe a try and enjoy its vibrant flavors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Tomato Quinoa Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Tomato Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings together the wholesome goodness of quinoa and fresh vegetables. This salad is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy nutritious lunches or side dishes throughout the week. With a zesty lime dressing and protein-packed chickpeas, this refreshing salad not only bursts with flavor but also keeps you feeling energized. Ready in just 22 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy days or gatherings. Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own—this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup dry quinoa
• 3/4 cup water
• 2–3 cups chopped/sliced tomato
• 15 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup chopped green onion
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from 2 limes)
• 2 TBSP avocado oil
• 1 clove garlic (smashed and minced)
• 1 TBSP fresh chopped parsley
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/8 tsp pepper
• additional fresh chopped parsley (to taste)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Rinse 1/2 cup of dry quinoa in a mesh strainer. In a small pot over medium heat, lightly toast the quinoa for a few minutes, then add 3/4 cup water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-13 minutes until fluffy.
2. While quinoa cooks, chop 2-3 cups of tomatoes, drain and rinse a 15 oz can of chickpeas, and slice green onions.
3. For the dressing, mix 1/4 cup lime juice, 2 tablespoons avocado oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Once quinoa cools slightly, fluff with a fork and combine with tomatoes, chickpeas, green onions, and additional parsley if desired. Toss with half of the dressing.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 275
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg