Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

This Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that comes together in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick lunch or a side at your next barbecue, this salad is both nutritious and flavorful. The zesty dressing, infused with fresh herbs, elevates the quinoa and vegetables to create a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Dressing: The cilantro lime dressing adds a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the quinoa and veggies.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins for added variety.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from quinoa and beans, this salad is a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made without animal products, this dish caters to vegan diets while still being satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather some essential tools before you start. Having everything in place will help you focus on creating this delicious salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor or blender
• Medium pot
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor or blender: Essential for making the smooth cilantro lime dressing quickly.
• Medium pot: Used for cooking the quinoa evenly without burning.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine all ingredients efficiently without spilling.
• Knife: Necessary for chopping vegetables to the desired size.

Ingredients

This Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes and is tossed with a delicious herb-infused zesty dressing.

For the Salad Base

• 1 cup quinoa, uncooked
• Pinch of salt
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
• ⅓ cup red onion, finely diced
• ½ cucumber, deseeded and chopped

For the Dressing

• ½ cup fresh cilantro, with stems
• 1 scallion, end removed
• 1-2 cloves garlic, crushed
• ¼ cup plain unsweetened plant-based yogurt or extra virgin olive oil
• Zest of one lime
• Juice of two limes
• ½ tsp coriander
• 1 tbsp white apple vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a food processor or blender, combine:
2. Fresh cilantro
3. Scallion
4. Garlic
5. Yogurt (or olive oil)
6. Lime juice and zest
7. Coriander
8. White apple vinegar
9. Maple syrup
10. Process until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, add:
2. Cooked quinoa
3. White beans
4. Diced red onion
5. Chopped cucumber
6. Toss gently to combine.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

1. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture.
2. Toss everything together again until well combined.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

1. Taste your salad and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
2. Serve immediately or allow it to chill in the fridge for enhanced flavors.

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a side, these suggestions will help you make the most of this refreshing salad.

As a Main Dish

• Serve chilled for a light lunch or dinner that’s packed with protein and flavor.
• Pair it with grilled vegetables for a wholesome meal that complements the zesty notes of the salad.

As a Side Dish

• Offer Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad alongside tacos or burritos to add a fresh and healthy element to your meal.
• It also works well as a side for barbecued dishes, balancing rich flavors with its tangy dressing.

In Meal Prep

• Prepare this salad in advance for weekly lunches. Store it in airtight containers for an easy grab-and-go option.
• Add in some extra toppings like avocado or nuts just before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.

How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

Creating the perfect Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cilantro and lime juice will elevate your salad’s flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your salad before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed to achieve the right balance.
• Chill before serving: Letting your salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding diced bell peppers, corn, or avocado for extra color and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. These options not only complement its flavor but also create a balanced meal.

1. Grilled Chicken: A simple herb-marinated grilled chicken adds protein and pairs nicely with the salad’s zesty notes.
2. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful mix of stir-fried vegetables offers crunch and additional nutrients that work well together.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the tangy quinoa salad.
4. Black Bean Tacos: Serve these flavorful tacos alongside your salad for a festive meal full of plant-based goodness.
5. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread makes for a delightful accompaniment that enhances each bite of salad.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and is easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your salad turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the rinsing of quinoa: Failing to rinse quinoa before cooking can result in a bitter taste. Always rinse it under cold water to remove saponins, which can alter the flavor.

• Overcooking quinoa: Cooking quinoa too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely and check for the characteristic little tails when done.

• Not adjusting seasoning: A bland salad is unappealing. Taste your salad before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed to enhance flavors.

• Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a big difference in taste. Ensure your cilantro, scallions, and other veggies are fresh for the best results.

• Dressing too early: Adding dressing too early can lead to soggy quinoa. Dress the salad right before serving for optimal texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Containers: Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers for best preservation.
• Separation: If possible, keep dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

• Duration: This salad is not ideal for freezing due to its fresh ingredients but may last up to 1 month if frozen.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
• Thawing: To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), spread salad on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn. You can also swap beans for chickpeas or add avocado for creaminess.

How do I store leftover Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, keep dressing separate until serving.

Is this Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad vegan?

Yes! This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it a great option for vegans and those looking for healthy meals.

What can I serve with Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled vegetables, tacos, or as a side dish with any protein. It’s versatile enough to complement various dishes.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad is not just quick and easy; it’s also bursting with fresh flavors that make it an ideal choice for any meal. With its customizable nature, you can adjust ingredients based on your preferences. Give this refreshing salad a try—you won’t regret it!

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Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings together the zesty flavors of cilantro and lime in a delightful mix. This refreshing salad can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it the perfect option for busy weeknights or as a colorful addition to your next barbecue. With protein-packed quinoa and white beans, along with fresh vegetables, this dish is not only delicious but also vegan-friendly. The herb-infused dressing adds an extra layer of flavor, elevating every bite. Enjoy it as a light main course, a fulfilling side dish, or as part of your meal prep for the week.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup uncooked quinoa
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
• ⅓ cup red onion, finely diced
• ½ cucumber, chopped
• ½ cup fresh cilantro
• 1 scallion
• 1–2 cloves garlic
• Juice and zest of two limes
• ¼ cup plain plant-based yogurt or olive oil

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Instructions

1. Rinse quinoa under cold water; cook according to package instructions until fluffy and cool.
2. In a blender, combine cilantro, scallion, garlic, lime juice and zest, yogurt (or oil), coriander, vinegar, and maple syrup; blend until smooth.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooled quinoa, white beans, red onion, and cucumber; toss gently.
4. Pour dressing over the salad mixture; toss until evenly coated.
5. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed; serve immediately or chill for enhanced flavors.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Vegan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg