Quinoa Salad with vegetables

Quinoa Salad with Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Quinoa:

• Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
• In a medium saucepan, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil.
• Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
• Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool.

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

• While the quinoa is cooling, prepare the vegetables. Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.

1. Make the Dressing:

• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

1. Assemble the Salad:

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
• Add the feta cheese if using.
• Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

1. Serve: