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High Protein Salads for a Flavorful Boost Recipe

High Protein Salads for a Flavorful Boost Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 11 reviews

A vibrant, nutritious high-protein salad combining quinoa, chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and feta cheese, dressed with a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing. Perfect for a flavorful boost to your meals, this salad is easy to prepare, filling, and packed with protein and fiber.

Ingredients

Scale

Grains & Legumes

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • ½ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

Dairy

  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

Dressing

  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural bitterness. In a medium pot, combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool briefly.
  2. Prepare Vegetables and Herbs: While the quinoa is cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and chop the fresh parsley or cilantro. Combine these fresh ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Combine Salad Ingredients: Add the cooled quinoa and drained chickpeas to the bowl with the chopped vegetables and herbs. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top, then gently mix everything together until well combined.
  4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
  5. Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Serve the salad immediately for a fresh taste or chill it in the refrigerator before serving to let the flavors meld.

Notes

  • For extra protein, add grilled chicken or tofu.
  • Use vegetable broth instead of water when cooking quinoa for added flavor.
  • This salad can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • For a vegan option, omit feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
  • Add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika for extra seasoning in the dressing.

Nutrition

Keywords: high protein salad, quinoa salad, chickpea salad, healthy salad, Mediterranean salad, vegetarian lunch

Find it online: https://frommamamaya.com/high-protein-salads-for-a-flavorful-boost-recipe/