Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Spinach and Chickpeas
This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Spinach and Chickpeas is a hearty and nutritious option that’s easy to make and perfect for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad is sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you feeling great. Enjoy!
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Say hello to the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Spinach and Chickpeas—a vibrant, nutritious, and downright delicious salad that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Imagine tender quinoa, fresh spinach, and protein-packed chickpeas all mingling together with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and a hint of smoked paprika. This salad is a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds sing and your body thank you for every bite.
This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is not only a feast for your senses but also a breeze to make. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, you’ll love how easily this wholesome dish comes together. So, let’s dive into what makes this salad so special and why it deserves a spot on your meal plan!
What is Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Spinach and Chickpeas?
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Spinach and Chickpeas is a refreshing and hearty salad that combines the best of Mediterranean cuisine with nutrient-dense ingredients. The star of the show is quinoa, a versatile and protein-rich grain that pairs beautifully with fresh spinach, creamy chickpeas, and a medley of vibrant veggies. Tossed in a tangy lemon-garlic dressing, this salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
What Makes This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Healthy?
This salad is a nutritional powerhouse! Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Chickpeas add even more protein and fiber, keeping you full and satisfied. The olive oil in the dressing provides healthy fats, and the fresh veggies add a dose of antioxidants. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by skipping the feta cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Healthy Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Spinach and Chickpeas
You’ll love this salad because it’s:
- Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, this salad is as healthy as it is delicious.
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this salad in no time.
- Versatile: It’s perfect as a main dish or a side. Bring it to a potluck, pack it for lunch, or serve it for dinner.
- Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, oregano, and thyme creates a dressing that’s bursting with Mediterranean goodness.
RELATED: Healthy Vegetarian Southwestern Grain Bowl with Quinoa – This vibrant dish is a symphony of textures and tastes, combining fluffy quinoa with black beans, corn, colorful bell peppers, and zesty spices. Topped with creamy avocado slices and a splash of fresh lime, this bowl is a nutritious and satisfying meal choice that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
What Tools Do You Need to Make This Salad?
To make this Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Spinach and Chickpeas, you’ll need:
- A serving bowl or platter
- A medium saucepan
- A small jar with a lid for the dressing
- A large mixing bowl
- A sharp knife for chopping
- A cutting board
- A spoon or fork for fluffing the quinoa
Ingredients you’ll need
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the salad
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
For the dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garnish:
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
How to Make This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
- In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- To a small jar, add the garlic, lemon juice, and seasonings. Seal the jar and shake until combined. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, toss together the quinoa, red onion, chickpeas, red bell pepper, and spinach.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Before serving, add the crumbled feta if using.
Make this Mediterranean Quinoa Salad recipe, then check out my Autumn Harvest Quinoa Power Bowl with Maple Balsamic Dressing, or my TikTok Quinoa Salad (aka The Jennifer Aniston Salad) and more of my quinoa salad recipes.
TIPS AND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Read on for tips and substitution ideas on how to make this recipe, such as how to customize this salad, and how to store this salad.
Can I make Mediterranean Quinoa Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just store the dressing separately and toss before serving.
Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can substitute quinoa with couscous, farro, or bulgur for a different twist.
Is this salad vegan?
This salad is vegan if you skip the feta cheese. You can also use a vegan feta alternative.
What can I add to this salad for more protein?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu would make excellent additions for extra protein.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Fresh spinach is recommended for the best texture, but you can use thawed and well-drained frozen spinach if needed.
How to Store Leftover Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep for up to 3 days. For the best flavor and texture, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.
This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Spinach and Chickpeas is a hearty and nutritious option that’s easy to make and perfect for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad is sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you feeling great. Enjoy!
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Other Quinoa Salad recipes to try
- Corn and Black Bean Quinoa Salad Recipe
- Autumn Harvest Quinoa Power Bowl with Maple Balsamic Dressing
- TikTok Quinoa Salad (aka The Jennifer Aniston Salad)
- Healthy Vegetarian Southwestern Grain Bowl with Quinoa
- Healthy and Spicy Stuffed Quinoa Red Peppers
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Spinach and Chickpeas Recipe
Equipment You’ll Need
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 small red onion (diced)
- 1 can (15 ounces chickpeas, drained and rinsed)
- 1 red bell pepper (seeded and diced)
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- To a small jar, add the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and seasonings. Seal the jar and shake until combined. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, toss together the quinoa, red onion, chickpeas, red bell pepper, and spinach.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Before serving, add the crumbled feta if using.
