Delicious Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Salad Recipe

The aroma of spices wafts through the air as you prepare your Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Salad. Picture this colorful dish bursting with flavor, vibrant ingredients dancing together in a bowl like they’re at a party. The crunch of fresh veggies complements the creamy dressing, creating an explosion of taste that will have your taste buds doing the cha-cha!

This recipe isn’t just food; it’s a celebration of flavors. I remember the first time I made this salad; my friends devoured it within minutes at our picnic. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply when you’re craving something nutritious yet satisfying. Trust me, your palate is in for an incredible ride!

I once made this salad for a potluck, and it vanished faster than my hopes of winning the office bake-off.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Quinoa: Use rinsed quinoa; it adds a nutty flavor and fluffy texture to your salad.
• Canned Chickpeas: Opt for low-sodium varieties; they’ll provide protein without overpowering other flavors.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes add sweetness and vibrant color—perfect for visual appeal.
• Cucumber: Crisp cucumber chunks bring coolness and crunch to balance the spiciness.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp bite; soak them in water if you prefer milder flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens up the dish with freshness; feel free to substitute with cilantro if you love that flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances flavors while adding zesty brightness—don’t skimp on this!
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness that elevates every bite.
• Spices (Cumin & Paprika): These spices are your secret weapons for adding warmth and depth to the salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Quinoa: Start by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water until it runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water; bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy.

Prepare the Veggies: While the quinoa cooks, chop 1 cucumber, 1 cup cherry tomatoes in half, and finely slice half a red onion. Arrange these colorful veggies in a large mixing bowl—you’ll want them all visible!

Mingle the Beans: Open 1 can of chickpeas (about 15 ounces), drain them well under cold water. Add these protein-packed beauties into your veggie bowl—trust me; they fit right in!

Add Flavorful Elements: Toss in ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley along with juice from one lemon and 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon cumin and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika.

Mix Everything Together: Gently fold all ingredients until evenly combined; be careful not to mush those gorgeous tomatoes! Let sit for about 10 minutes; this allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Savor Your Creation: Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to two days; just give it another gentle stir before serving! Enjoy this delightful dish on its own or as an accompaniment to grilled meats or fish.

Now go on! Whip up this Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Salad that’s not only tasty but also brings joy to every bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking quinoa according to package instructions while you roast chickpeas. This ensures everything is hot and fresh at serving time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chickpeas with black beans or add diced avocado for creaminess. Adjust the spices to cater to your heat preference!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture.

I remember serving this Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Salad at a summer barbecue, and it was gone in minutes! Friends kept asking for the recipe, which made my heart swell with pride.

FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s ideal to prepare this salad a day in advance for enhanced flavors.

How spicy is the Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Salad?

The spice level depends on your seasoning choices; adjust chili powder accordingly.

What can I substitute for quinoa?

Try using bulgur or couscous if you’re looking for a different grain texture.

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Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Salad

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Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Salad is a vibrant, nutritious dish brimming with flavor. This quick salad combines protein-rich chickpeas, fluffy quinoa, and fresh veggies for a delightful meal.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup quinoa
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cucumber
• ½ red onion
• ¼ cup fresh parsley
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika

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Instructions

1. Rinse quinoa under cold water until clear. In a saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
2. While quinoa cooks, chop cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, and slice red onion. Combine in a large bowl.
3. Rinse and drain chickpeas; add to the veggie mix.
4. Stir in chopped parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, and paprika.
5. Gently mix all ingredients until well combined. Let sit for 10 minutes to meld flavors before serving.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (220g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg