Ina Garten Quinoa Salad Recipe

This Ina Garten Quinoa Salad is a light and refreshing recipe, which includes fluffy quinoa and fresh vegetables tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. It’s a healthy twist on the classic salad, perfect for lunches, picnics, or weeknight dinners, and ready in just 30 minutes.

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Ina Garten Quinoa Salad Ingredients

Salad

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and cooked according to package instructions
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Dressing

• 3 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How To Make Ina Garten Quinoa Salad

1. Cook quinoa: Prepare quinoa according to package directions. Fluff with a fork and let cool to room temperature.
2. Chop vegetables: Dice cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and onion.
3. Make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
4. Assemble salad: In a large bowl, combine quinoa, vegetables, parsley, and mint. Pour over dressing and toss gently.
5. Finish with feta: Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired, and serve.

Recipe Tips

• Can I make this salad ahead? Yes, prepare up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Add feta just before serving.
• What’s the best quinoa to use? White quinoa is light and fluffy, while red or tricolor quinoa adds more texture.
• Can I add protein? Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make this salad more filling.
• How to boost flavor: Add a splash of red wine vinegar or a pinch of cumin to the dressing.
• How to keep it fresh: Stir in mint just before serving so it stays bright and flavorful.

What To Serve With Ina Garten Quinoa Salad

This fresh salad pairs well with:

• Grilled salmon or chicken
• Lamb kebabs
• Falafel or hummus with pita
• A simple green side salad

How To Store Ina Garten Quinoa Salad

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Mix well before serving.
Freeze: Not recommended, as quinoa and vegetables lose texture once frozen.

Ina Garten Quinoa Salad Nutrition Facts (per serving, 4 servings)

• Calories: 285
• Protein: 9g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 220mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I make quinoa salad without feta?

Yes, simply omit it or use a dairy-free alternative.

Can I serve quinoa salad warm?

Yes, it’s delicious warm, room temperature, or chilled.

Can I add other veggies?

Absolutely—zucchini, roasted eggplant, or olives make great additions.

How do I keep quinoa fluffy?

Use 2 cups water for every 1 cup quinoa and let it rest covered for 5 minutes before fluffing.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Orzo Salad With Feta Recipe
• Ina Garten Waldorf Salad Recipe
• Ina Garten Wild Rice Salad Recipe