Go Back
+ servings
Lemon Herb Quinoa

Zesty Lemon Herb Quinoa that Brightens Your Meal Game

Enjoy a healthy bowl of Lemon Herb Quinoa that's quick to prep and packed with flavorful herbs and protein-rich chickpeas.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Quinoa
  • 1 cup quinoa Any color; rinse to remove bitterness.
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or water Use broth for richer flavor.
For the Chickpeas
  • 1 can chickpeas Drained and rinsed.
For the Fresh Herbs
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley Flat-leaf parsley is best.
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint Adds freshness.
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill Unique flavor.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil Use high-quality oil.
  • 1 juice lemon Freshly squeezed for best acidity.
  • 1 lemon lemon zest From one lemon.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced.
  • to taste red pepper flakes Optional; adjust to preference.
  • to taste sea salt Adjust for balance.
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper
Optional Additions
  • 1 cup cucumber For extra crunch.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes Adds sweetness and color.
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese For non-vegan option.
  • 1/4 cup kalamata olives For added flavor.

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium bowl
  • knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Rinse quinoa under cold water for about 1–2 minutes. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer, cover, and cook for 15–20 minutes until fluffy.
  2. Finely chop fresh parsley, mint, and dill. Set aside with sliced green onions.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
  4. Once quinoa is done, fluff with a fork and cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, combine quinoa, chickpeas, herbs, and dressing. Mix well.
  5. Gently toss the mixture to ensure even coating, being careful not to mash the chickpeas.
  6. Let the dish rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 9gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water to eliminate bitterness. Let the dish sit for 10 minutes after mixing for enhanced flavor.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!