Rebecca Thompson
Dedicated woman chef with a passion for creating unforgettable main dishes. Innovative and skilled in crafting diverse flavors that leave a lasting impression.
Lemony White Bean Quinoa Salad
The Lemony White Bean Quinoa Salad is a delightful blend of flavours hailing from the world of Mediterranean cuisine. Its key ingredients include quinoa, white beans, parsley, and lemon juice, garnished with red onion and various spices. This protein-packed delicacy is perfect for health-conscious individuals seeking nutritious meals.
It's simple, yet captivating taste is ideal for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to fancy dinner parties. This salad also complements well with a variety of mains such as portobello steaks, baked fish or any dish with parsley and lemon
Interestingly, the salad is also a great hit among the vegan community. Hence, it doesn't hesitate to mark its presence during vegan-themed gatherings.
- Calories200
- Time30
- Portions4
- Score4.00
Ingredients
- Cooked Quinoa 1 ½ cups
- White Beans 1 (15 oz.) can
- Parsley 1/2 cup
- Lemon Juice 2 Tbsp
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1 Tbsp
- Red Onion 2 Tbsp
- Garlic 2-3 cloves
- Sea Salt 1/2-3/4 tsp
- Black Pepper 1/2 tsp
- Red Pepper Flakes 1/4 tsp
Preparation
Preparing the Quinoa
1. In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup dry quinoa and 1 cup water, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat
2. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and continue cooking for ~12-15 minutes until the water is absorbed and the quinoa becomes fluffy and has expanded.
3. Remove from the heat, stir, and set aside (covered) while you prepare the salad.
Preparing the Salad
1. To a medium mixing bowl, add drained and rinsed white beans, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, onion, garlic, and spices. Stir to combine and let sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the white beans to marinate and soak up the flavors.
2. Add the cooked quinoa to the marinated white beans and stir to combine.
3. Taste and adjust as needed, adding more lemon juice for brightness, parsley for herbiness, or salt to taste.
Suggestions
Serving Suggestion
This salad can be served either chilled or at room temperature. It makes a wonderful side dish, complementing a variety of main courses such as portobello steaks, grilled chicken, or oven-baked fish. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to any menu.
Storage Advice
The remaining salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, it is not recommended to freeze it as the texture and taste can change considerably. Always ensure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
Alternative Ingredients
For those who love experimenting with flavors, you can substitute quinoa with more white beans. The added volume of beans brings a different texture and boosts the protein content in the salad.
Frequent Questions
Can the salad be made ahead of time?
Yes, the salad can be made ahead of time. The flavors even enhance when given time to meld together. However, for the best texture and freshness, it is recommended to consume it within 2-3 days.
What can be used in place of quinoa?
If quinoa is not available, couscous or bulgur wheat can be excellent substitutes. They have similar textures and bring their own unique flavors to the dish.
What other types of beans can be used in this salad?
Though white beans are traditionally used in this salad, you can substitute them with red kidney beans, chickpeas, or black beans. Each type of bean will contribute a new dimension of taste and texture.
What can be used as a substitute for parsley?
If parsley isn't available, fresh basil or coriander could be substituted. However, keep in mind that these herbs have distinct flavors and may alter the overall taste of the salad.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make the salad more substantial, you can add roasted vegetables, feta cheese, or grilled chicken. For a plant-based protein boost, consider adding toasted almonds or sunflower seeds.