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Spring Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dressing

Spring Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dressing is a refreshing and nutritious dish that captures the essence of spring. This vibrant salad features protein-rich quinoa, tender asparagus, hearty chickpeas, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. It’s perfect for light lunches, picnics, and gatherings. With its bright flavors and colorful presentation, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also full of health benefits. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s versatile enough to be served as a main dish or a delightful side.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 bunch asparagus
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes
  • ¼ cup red onion
  • ¼ cup feta cheese (optional)
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook quinoa: Bring water/broth to a boil, add quinoa, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff and cool.
  2. Blanch asparagus: Boil for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp; transfer to ice water then drain.
  3. Make dressing: Whisk olive oil, lemon juice and zest, mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  4. Assemble salad: In a large bowl, mix quinoa, asparagus, chickpeas, tomatoes, onion, and parsley. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
  5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or chill for enhanced flavors.
  • Author: Adriana
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiling/Chilling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: Customize with seasonal veggies like bell peppers for added crunch. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors. For extra nutrition, consider adding nuts or seeds.