Protein-Packed Vegan Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is popularly known as a superfood because of its high nutrient value. It’s made up of high-quality protein and is rich in fibre, calcium, iron, vitamin E & antioxidants. It’s also naturally gluten-free. So, it’s without a doubt, a great idea to add it to your salads!
With its nutty flavour and light & fluffy texture, it turns out that quinoa happens to be the ideal base for a salad! Add in colourful veggies, lentils of your choice and top it off with your favourite dressing, and you’ll have yourself a refreshing and wholesome salad bowl!

INGREDIENTS:-

• 1/2 cup quinoa, raw
• 1/2 cup chickpeas, cooked
• 1/2 cup kidney beans, cooked
• 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp mint leaves, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup onion, sliced
• 1/4 cup carrot, shredded
• 2-3 cherry tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:-

(To cook quinoa)

1. Rinse the quinoa under running water for at least 30 seconds, and then drain.
2. To a medium pot, add 1 part quinoa to 2 parts water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Cover and reduce the heat. Gently simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let it sit with the lid on for 10-15 minutes.
5. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.

(For the dressing)

1. In a small bowl, add the apple cider vinegar, lime juice, garlic, salt and pepper.
2. To a large mixing bowl, add the chickpeas, kidney beans, shredded carrot, onion, parsley and mint. Mix well.
3. Add the quinoa and drizzle the dressing on top. Toss until well combined.
4. Transfer to a salad bowl, top with cherry tomatoes and serve.