Easy Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas and Lemon Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a fresh, healthy, and easy-to-make dish, this Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas is perfect! Tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette and loaded with colorful veggies, it’s refreshing, filling, and packed with nutrients. This salad is great for picnics, potlucks, barbecues, or a quick meal at home. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and can be made ahead of time!

Ingredients

For the Quinoa Salad

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1½ cups halved cherry tomatoes
• ½ cup diced small red onion
• 2 cups diced English cucumber
• ¼ cup chopped fresh dill
• 2 medium avocados, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup vegan feta cheese (optional)

For the Lemon Dressing

• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
• A few shakes of black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

First, rinse the quinoa well under cold water using a fine mesh strainer. This helps remove its natural bitter taste.
Add the rinsed quinoa and water to a medium saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 10–15 minutes, or until the water is fully absorbed.
Take it off the heat and let it sit covered for about 10 minutes. Then fluff it with a fork.
Let the quinoa cool slightly. To cool it faster, you can move it to a bowl and pop it in the fridge or freezer. You can also cook the quinoa 2–3 days ahead of time.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a mason jar with a lid (or a small bowl), mix the lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Shake or whisk until everything is well combined. Set it aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, add the cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, dill, avocados, and chickpeas.
Once the quinoa has cooled down, add it to the bowl too.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat well.
If you like, sprinkle vegan feta on top for extra flavor.
You can serve the salad right away, or cover it and keep it chilled until you’re ready to eat.

Tip: If you’re making the salad ahead of time, add the avocado just before serving so it stays fresh.

This Easy Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas is the perfect dish when you want something simple, healthy, and full of flavor. The mix of fresh veggies, fluffy quinoa, creamy avocado, and the tangy lemon dressing makes every bite delicious and satisfying. It’s great for lunch, dinner, or to bring to your next gathering. Light yet filling, this salad will keep you energized and happy. Plus, it stores well for a few days, making it a wonderful option for meal prep!

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