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Lemon Thyme Quinoa Salad Recipe

4.6 from 117 reviews

This Lemon Thyme Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for brightening up heavy holiday meals. Featuring fluffy quinoa, fresh cucumber, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty lemon and thyme dressing, this salad is light yet flavorful and even tastes better after chilling overnight.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa, cooked and cooled
  • ½ cup diced cucumber
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, chopped fresh thyme, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
  2. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a separate bowl, place the cooked and cooled quinoa along with the diced cucumber and halved cherry tomatoes.
  3. Toss and Dress: Pour the lemon thyme dressing over the quinoa and vegetables, then gently toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Chill the Salad: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least an hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and develop fully before serving.
  5. Serve: Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. For a fresh boost, squeeze extra lemon juice over the salad just before serving if desired.

Notes

  • The salad keeps fresh for up to 4 days when stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
  • For the best flavor, allow the salad to chill overnight to let the ingredients marinate together.
  • Serve cold or at room temperature depending on your preference.
  • Refreshing the salad with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving enhances the citrus notes.

Keywords: lemon thyme quinoa salad, quinoa salad, lemon dressing, healthy salad, vegetarian salad, holiday side dish