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Homemade Quinoa & Chickpea Salad photo

Quinoa & Chickpea Salad

This Quinoa & Chickpea Salad is bursting with flavor! Packed with protein and fiber, it's a vibrant, nutritious choice for any meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup quinoa (uncooked, pre-rinsed)
  • 1 cup baby peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 15 ounces garbanzo beans (canned, drained, and rinsed)
  • 1 large cucumber (sliced into half circles)
  • 1 large carrot (peeled and grated)
  • 2 tablespoons chives (finely chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons basil (fresh and finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup parsley (coarsely chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Grater
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes, then fluff with a fork.
  2. While the quinoa is cooking, prepare your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumber, and grate the carrot. If you’re using fresh peas, make sure they are shelled; if using frozen, simply thaw them.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, baby peas, cherry tomatoes, garbanzo beans, cucumber, grated carrot, chives, basil, and parsley.
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well coated.
  5. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Always rinse quinoa before cooking to avoid bitterness.
  • Let the salad chill for better flavor.
  • Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or beans.