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Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad Recipe

Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 23 reviews

A vibrant and refreshing Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad featuring protein-rich quinoa, white beans, fresh vegetables, and a zesty cilantro lime dressing. Perfect as a light meal or side dish, this salad is dairy-free, vegan, and packed with fiber and nutrients.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

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

Dressing

  • ½ cup fresh cilantro
  • 1 scallion
  • 1–2 cloves garlic
  • ¼ cup plant-based yogurt or olive oil
  • Juice and zest of two limes
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Cook the quinoa: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions, typically by boiling it in water for about 15 minutes until fluffy. Allow it to cool completely before using in the salad.
  2. Prepare the dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine fresh cilantro, scallion, minced garlic, plant-based yogurt or olive oil, lime juice and zest, and maple syrup. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating a tangy and vibrant dressing.
  3. Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled quinoa, rinsed and drained white beans, finely diced red onion, and chopped cucumber. Gently toss these ingredients together to evenly distribute them.
  4. Add the dressing: Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the quinoa mixture. Toss everything thoroughly until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors.
  5. Serve or chill: The salad can be served immediately for a fresh taste or chilled in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. Enjoy it as a nutritious, vegan-friendly meal or side dish.

Notes

  • You can substitute white beans with chickpeas or black beans for variety.
  • If you prefer a creamier dressing, use plant-based yogurt instead of olive oil.
  • This salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep.
  • Adjust the number of garlic cloves based on your taste preference.
  • Adding avocado or cherry tomatoes can add extra flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime quinoa salad, vegan quinoa salad, healthy salad, gluten-free salad, protein-packed salad, plant-based salad

Find it online: https://messykitchenmagic.com/cilantro-lime-quinoa-salad-recipe/