Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

This Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that can elevate any meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish at gatherings, this salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with zesty lime and fresh cilantro. Its unique herb-infused dressing brings everything together in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic days.
• Bursting with Flavor: The zesty lime and aromatic cilantro create a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
• Nutritious and Healthy: Packed with protein from quinoa and beans, this salad is both filling and nutritious.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own or as a side dish with grilled meats or veggies.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is plant-based, perfect for vegans and those looking to eat healthier.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor or blender: This tool makes blending the dressing effortless, ensuring a smooth consistency.
• Medium pot: Ideal for cooking quinoa evenly without sticking.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl helps combine all the ingredients easily without spilling.

Ingredients

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

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

• Cook quinoa according to the package instructions.
• Once cooked, fluff your quinoa with a fork and allow it to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

• In a food processor or blender, combine:
• Fresh cilantro,
• Scallion,
• Crushed garlic,
• Yogurt (or olive oil),
• Lime juice and zest,
• Coriander,
• White apple vinegar,
• Maple syrup.
• Process until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

• In a mixing bowl, add:
• The cooled quinoa,
• Rinsed white beans,
• Finely diced red onion,
• Chopped cucumber.
• Toss everything together gently until well combined.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

• Pour your prepared dressing over the salad mixture.
• Toss everything together again to ensure all components are coated in the dressing.

Step 5: Serve

• Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve immediately or allow to chill in the fridge for enhanced flavors.

Enjoy your refreshing Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a side dish, this salad fits perfectly into any dining scenario.

As a Main Dish

• This salad can serve as a hearty main course. Pair it with grilled vegetables or avocado slices for extra nutrition and flavor.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or fish. The zesty dressing complements savory flavors beautifully.

In Wraps

• Use the salad as a filling for wraps or tacos. It adds freshness and crunch, making any wrap more exciting and nutritious.

On Lettuce Cups

• Spoon the salad into crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing appetizer. This makes for an easy and healthy finger food option.

With Extra Toppings

• Enhance the salad with toppings like sliced radishes, crumbled feta, or avocado. These additions can elevate the texture and taste of your meal.

How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

To make your Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad even better, follow these simple tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Cook quinoa properly: Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness. Follow package instructions for perfect fluffiness.
• Balance flavors: Adjust lime juice and maple syrup to achieve your desired tanginess and sweetness.
• Chill before serving: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps flavors meld beautifully.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cilantro and lime juice will significantly enhance the overall taste of your salad.
• Experiment with beans: Swap white beans for chickpeas or black beans for variety in flavor and texture.
• Add crunch: Incorporate nuts or seeds like toasted pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch and nutritional boost.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad pairs well with many side dishes that complement its vibrant flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Flavorful skewers marinated in herbs go well with the zesty salad.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweetness from roasted sweet potatoes balances the lime dressing beautifully.
3. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on whole-grain bread makes a satisfying pairing with this refreshing salad.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with seasoned quinoa or rice for a colorful presentation alongside the salad.
5. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A quick stir-fry of seasonal veggies provides a crunchy contrast to the soft textures of the salad.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn drizzled with lime complements the flavors in this dish perfectly.
7. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds a sweet touch that pairs nicely with the savory elements of the quinoa salad.
8. Pita Chips with Hummus: Crunchy pita chips served with hummus offer a delightful snacking option alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overcooking quinoa: Quinoa should be fluffy, not mushy. Follow the package instructions carefully and let it cool before mixing it with other ingredients.
• Skipping the dressing: The dressing is key for flavor. Don’t skip the cilantro lime dressing; it elevates the entire dish.
• Not seasoning properly: A pinch of salt can make a big difference. Taste your salad after combining everything and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Using dry herbs instead of fresh: Fresh cilantro adds vibrant flavor. Avoid using dried herbs in this recipe to achieve the best results.
• Chilling for too long: While some chilling is good, letting it sit for hours can lead to soggy vegetables. Chill for up to an hour before serving for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep your salad fresh.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

• Duration: This salad freezes well for up to a month.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, but leave out the dressing if possible.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salad in an oven-safe dish and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Microwave in short bursts (about 30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until warm, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad vegan?

You can easily make this salad vegan by using plant-based yogurt or olive oil as suggested in the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or beans based on what you have on hand.

How long does Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad last?

In the refrigerator, it lasts for about 3 days. If frozen, it can stay good for a month.

What are some great pairings with this quinoa salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or as a side dish at barbecues.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various vegetables or proteins according to your preference. Give this refreshing dish a try; it’s perfect for lunch or dinner!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that effortlessly combines nutty quinoa with zesty lime and fresh cilantro. This quick and easy salad can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Packed with protein from quinoa and beans, it serves as a nutritious main course or a delightful side dish. The herb-infused dressing ties all the flavors together, creating an irresistible combination. Enjoy this vegan-friendly recipe as a filling lunch or dinner option, or use it to complement your favorite grilled meats and vegetables.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa
• 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 can white beans (15 oz)
• ⅓ cup red onion
• ½ cucumber

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Instructions

1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let cool.
2. In a blender, combine cilantro, scallion, garlic, yogurt (or oil), lime juice and zest, and blend until smooth.
3. In a bowl, mix cooled quinoa, rinsed white beans, diced red onion, and chopped cucumber.
4. Pour dressing over salad mixture and toss gently to coat.
5. Serve immediately or chill for enhanced flavor.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg