Quinoa Salad

June 16, 2026
Colorful quinoa salad with diced vegetables, including bell peppers and onions, in a deep blue bowl. A fresh, nutritious dish for healthy meals.

I think every time I make a quinoa salad, I change up the ingredients. There are so many wonderful Summer veggies you can just toss into a quinoa salad. It is so light and refreshing, and SUPER PACKED with protein, which makes a perfect side dish for any meal.

Carol’s Quinoa

For light and fluffy quinoa, follow this recipe from Dave’s mom.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water (divided use or 1 cup water and 1 cup chicken stock)
  • Spices (as desired)

Directions

  • Soak quinoa in water for 15 minutes.
  • Strain and rinse the quinoa.
  • In a small pot, add quinoa with water (or chicken stock) and add desired spices.
  • Heat to a simmer on medium-high heat.
  • Turn the heat to low and cover for 30 to 35 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes.
  • Fluff with a fork.

Summer Quinoa Salad

Ingredients

Prepared cooked quinoa (follow the recipe above).

1 medium chopped cucumber

1 pint of halved cherry tomatoes

1 cup Summer squash, chopped and sautéed

1 roasted corn on the cob (kernels off the cob)

1/2 of a chopped red onion

2 tablespoons fresh parsley

Dill Dressing

  • 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  • In a large bowl, add quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, sautéed Summer squash, roasted corn, red onion, and parsley.
  • In a small box, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, fresh dill, and salt and pepper until emulsified.
  • Add the dill dressing to the quinoa and veggies and mix until well combined.
  • Serve and enjoy!

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