Spicy Quinoa Salad
Bursting with bold flavors and vibrant colors, this Spicy Quinoa Salad is the perfect fusion of health and heat. Nutty, fluffy quinoa creates a wholesome base, perfectly complemented by crisp cucumber, sweet cherry tomatoes, and crunchy red bell pepper. The zesty lime and olive oil dressing, infused with smoky paprika and ground cumin, adds tantalizing spice, while fresh cilantro and jalapeño bring a refreshing kick. Quick to make in under 40 minutes, this gluten-free, protein-packed salad is as versatile as it is delicious—serve it as a light main course, a flavorful side, or a refreshing meal prep dish. Perfect for those seeking a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on bold, satisfying flavors, this spicy quinoa salad will become your go-to for any occasion.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium cucumber
- 1 medium red bell pepper
- 1 small red onion
- 0.25 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 small jalapeño
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitterness.
In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed all the water. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let it cool to room temperature.
While the quinoa cools, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and mince the jalapeño (remove seeds for less heat, if desired). Chop the cilantro finely.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss everything together until evenly combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more lime juice, salt, or spices to your preference.
Serve the spicy quinoa salad as a main dish or side. It can be enjoyed immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for an hour to enhance the flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
184 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 11.4 g | 15% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.7 g | 8% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 257 mg | 11% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 18.7 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.3 g | 12% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.7 g | ||
| Protein | 3.3 g | 7% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 48 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 1.7 mg | 9% | |
| Potassium | 382 mg | 8% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
