Vegetarian Protein Packed Salads for Healthy Living

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 whole cucumber, diced
• 1 whole red bell pepper, diced
• 0.5 whole red onion, finely chopped
• 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 0.25 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 1 whole lemon, juiced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• to taste salt and pepper

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and chickpeas. Stir well to mix them evenly.
2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and parsley to the bowl with quinoa and chickpeas.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until all the ingredients are well coated.
5. If you are using feta cheese, sprinkle it on top of the salad and give it a light toss to incorporate it into the mix.
6. Allow the salad to rest for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.