Protein-rich salad with quinoa, edamame, and crisp vegetables tossed in bright citrus dressing for a refreshing meal.
# Ingredient List:
→ Grains and Legumes
01 - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1 cup shelled edamame, fresh or frozen
→ Vegetables
04 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
06 - 1/2 cucumber, diced
07 - 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
09 - 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
→ Dressing
10 - 3 tablespoons olive oil
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
12 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
13 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
14 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
15 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
# Directions:
01 - Combine quinoa and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
02 - Bring water to a boil in a small pot. Add edamame and cook for 3-4 minutes according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly and set aside to cool.
03 - Transfer cooled quinoa and edamame to a large mixing bowl. Add cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint. Toss to combine evenly.
04 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, rice vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until fully emulsified.
05 - Pour vinaigrette over salad mixture and toss gently until all components are evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
06 - Serve immediately at room temperature or refrigerate until ready to serve. The salad maintains optimal flavor and texture when consumed within 2 hours.
