Easy Quinoa Salad Recipe

Name: Easy Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped; 2 chopped garlic cloves; ¼ cup white balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese; ¼ cup safflower oil; ½ teaspoon salt; fresh ground black pepper; 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups chicken broth; ½ cup red pepper, diced; ½ cup yellow pepper, diced; ½ cup green onion, chopped; ½ cup chopped sugar snap pea; ¼ cup dried cranberries; ¼ cup slivered almonds

Servings: persons

2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
2 chopped garlic cloves
¼ cup white balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
¼ cup safflower oil
½ teaspoon salt
fresh ground black pepper
1 cup quinoa
2 cups chicken broth
½ cup red pepper, diced
½ cup yellow pepper, diced
½ cup green onion, chopped
½ cup chopped sugar snap pea
¼ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup slivered almonds

1
In a mini processor, combine the basil, vinegar, and Parmesan cheese until the basil is pureed.
2
With the motor running, pour the oil through the opening and blend until smooth.
3
Season with salt and pepper to taste, pour into a small bowl, and set aside.
4
Salad
5
Rinse your quinoa in cold water.
6
In a saucepan, over medium heat, bring quinoa and chicken broth to a boil.
7
Reduce heat and boil gently for 10 to 15 minutes.
8
Cover, remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes.
9
Remove lid, let cool and fluff with a fork.
10
In large bowl, combine quinoa, peppers,green onions, peas, cranberries and almonds.
11
Spoon on the vinaigrette and gently toss together.
12
Taste to adjust seasoning.

623

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
Leave out the nuts to make it nut-free, or swap in seeds for a similar crunch.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 16 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped, 2 chopped garlic cloves, ¼ cup white balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and more.

Yes, Easy Quinoa Salad falls under the Salads category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Keep refrigerated in an airtight container and enjoy within 1–2 days for the best freshness. Best served cold — no reheating needed.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Easy Quinoa Salad

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions