Ina Garten Quinoa Tabbouleh Recipe

This Ina Garten Quinoa Tabbouleh Recipe is a fresh and healthy salad, which includes fluffy quinoa and fresh herbs. It’s a light Mediterranean-inspired dish, ready in just 30 minutes.

Jump to Recipe

Ina Garten Quinoa Tabbouleh Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 English cucumber, diced
• 3 green onions, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)

How To Make Ina Garten Quinoa Tabbouleh

1. Cook the quinoa: Bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add rinsed quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let cool.
2. Prepare the vegetables and herbs: Dice tomatoes, cucumber, and green onions. Chop parsley and mint.
3. Make the dressing: Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and cumin (if using) in a small bowl.
4. Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled quinoa, vegetables, and herbs. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
5. Serve: Let sit for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to blend before serving.

Recipe Tips

• Can I make it ahead? Yes, prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate—just give it a stir before serving.
• What’s the best quinoa for tabbouleh? White quinoa gives the lightest texture, but tri-color quinoa also works.
• How do I keep it fluffy? Always rinse quinoa before cooking and fluff with a fork after cooking.
• Can I add protein? Yes, chickpeas, grilled chicken, or feta make it a heartier dish.
• Is cumin necessary? It’s optional, but it adds a warm, earthy flavor.

What To Serve With Quinoa Tabbouleh

This salad is versatile and pairs well with:

• Grilled chicken or lamb
• Falafel and hummus
• Pita bread and tzatziki
• Roasted vegetables
• A light seafood dish like grilled shrimp

How To Store Quinoa Tabbouleh

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze: Freezing affects the fresh herbs and texture.

Quinoa Tabbouleh Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Iron: 2mg

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

FAQs

Can I use bulgur instead of quinoa?
Yes, but cook according to package instructions—bulgur is the traditional grain.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.

Can I add more herbs?
Yes, fresh dill or basil can be added for variety.

Do I serve it warm or cold?
It’s best served chilled or at room temperature.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Cucumber Salad Recipe
• Ina Garten Celery Salad Recipe
• Ina Garten Tarragon Chicken Salad Recipe