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Quinoa Cucumber Salad

This quinoa cucumber salad combines toasted quinoa with crisp, fresh cucumbers and herbs, resulting in a dish with a light, crunchy texture and vibrant appearance. The salad is assembled with minimal fuss, emphasizing the natural flavors and textures of the ingredients, making it both refreshing and satisfying.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Fusion
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup quinoa rinsed
  • 2 cups water for boiling quinoa
  • 2 medium cucumbers deseeded and chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs such as parsley or dill, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for dressing
  • 1 lemon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • to taste salt and pepper as needed for seasoning

Equipment

  • Cooking pot
  • Frying pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Spoon

Method
 

  1. Bring water to a boil in a cooking pot, then add the rinsed quinoa. Cover and simmer over low heat until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. While the quinoa cooks, peel and seed the cucumbers, then chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. Place the chopped cucumbers in a mixing bowl.
  3. Add the chopped herbs to the bowl with the cucumbers, creating a fresh herbal aroma as you do so.
  4. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make a bright, tangy dressing.
  5. Pour the dressing over the warm cooked quinoa, tossing gently to coat the grains evenly—this helps the quinoa absorb some flavor while cooling down.
  6. Add the slightly cooled quinoa to the bowl of cucumbers and herbs, then fold everything together carefully, maintaining the crunchy textures.
  7. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired for extra brightness and flavor.
  8. Serve the salad immediately, or chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes for a cooler, more refreshing experience.

Notes

For extra flavor, add diced radishes or cherry tomatoes. Ensure the quinoa is cooled slightly before mixing to prevent sogginess.