Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper any color, diced
  • 1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 0.25 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 0.25 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup
  • 0 to taste salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid has absorbed. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, chickpeas, chopped red onion, and parsley.
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, maple syrup, salt, and pepper to create a dressing.
  5. Once the quinoa has cooled to room temperature, add it to the vegetable mixture.
  6. Drizzle the dressing over the quinoa and vegetables, then gently toss to combine everything evenly.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.

💡 Chef's Notes

Serve in a large bowl or individual plates, garnishing with additional parsley and a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra pop of color.

Recipe by Stella Richards - Founder & Recipe Developer