Name: Easy Quinoa Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 clove minced garlic; 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 large lemon); 1 tablespoon golden balsamic or red vinegar; 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup (can substitute honey); Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 cups cooked quinoa; 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped; 1 cup chopped cucumber; 1 cup halved grape or cherry tomatoes; 1 large avocado, pitted, peeled, and chopped; 2 green onions, sliced; Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 11 reviews

If you’re looking for a dish that’s fresh, vibrant, and downright satisfying, this Easy Quinoa Salad Recipe is exactly what you need in your culinary rotation. It combines fluffy, protein-packed quinoa with crisp veggies and a bright, zesty dressing that brings all the flavors together beautifully. Perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even as a stunning side, this salad is quick to throw together and bursts with color and texture in every bite. Once you try it, it’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes whenever you want something healthy, easy, and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with a yellow oily liquid containing small solid bits sits on a white marbled surface. A wooden spoon with a long handle rests inside the bowl, partially submerged in the liquid. Two halved lemons with bright yellow flesh are positioned near the top left corner of the image. A wooden bowl filled with coarse white salt is partially visible at the top right, and a crumpled white cloth with thin dark blue stripes lies at the bottom left near the bowl. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet come together in harmony to create a dish that’s fresh, nutritious, and full of contrasting textures. Each one plays a special role—whether it’s the creamy avocado, the crunch of cucumber, or the tangy punch from lemon juice and vinegar in the dressing.

Olive oil: Adds richness and a smooth base for the dressing while nourishing your body with healthy fats.
Minced garlic: Brings warmth and a hit of savory depth to the dressing.
Lemon juice: Provides a bright, zesty freshness to balance the salad.
Golden balsamic or red vinegar: Introduces subtle acidity and complexity to the dressing.
Pure maple syrup or honey: Offers a touch of sweetness that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other ingredients’ natural tastes.
Cooked quinoa: The hearty, protein-packed grain that serves as the base of this salad.
Fresh spinach leaves: Adds vibrant green color and a mild, slightly earthy taste.
Chopped cucumber: Brings a refreshing crunch and lightness.
Halved grape or cherry tomatoes: Sweet bursts of juiciness with a pop of color.
Large avocado: Creamy texture that balances the crisp vegetables perfectly.
Green onions: Add a gentle oniony bite without overwhelming the salad.

How to Make Easy Quinoa Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Begin by whisking together olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, your choice of golden balsamic or red vinegar, and maple syrup (or honey) in a small bowl or jar. Season it with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. This lively dressing is what ties all the elements together with its perfect balance of tang, sweetness, and savoriness, so give it a good stir and set it aside while you assemble the salad.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked quinoa, chopped fresh spinach leaves, crisp cucumber pieces, halved grape or cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado chunks, and sliced green onions. The combination of these colorful ingredients guarantees a bite bursting with flavor and contrast.

Step 3: Dress and Toss the Salad

Drizzle your freshly made dressing over the salad mixture. Gently fold and stir everything together until each bite is coated with that wonderful dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This final step transforms simple ingredients into a delightful and refreshing meal.

How to Serve Easy Quinoa Salad Recipe

Two white bowls are shown on a white marbled surface, filled with a colorful quinoa salad. The salad has three main layers: bright yellow quinoa grains base covering the bottom, fresh green spinach leaves mixed evenly throughout, and slices of green cucumber and halved red cherry tomatoes spread on top. The textures vary from soft quinoa, crisp cucumber pieces, and juicy tomatoes. A woman's hand is not shown but nearby are two silver forks placed next to the bowl closest to the camera. The overall setting has a fresh and healthy look with natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts adds crunch and a nutty aroma. Fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or basil bring an extra layer of freshness that beautifully complements the salad’s flavors. Don’t shy away from a little crumbled feta or goat cheese if you desire a creamy, tangy twist.

Side Dishes

This quinoa salad serves as a fantastic, nutrient-packed main dish, but it also pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables to create a hearty, satisfying meal. For a lighter option, enjoy it alongside a warm bowl of soup or with crusty artisan bread to soak up all those lovely dressing leftovers.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Easy Quinoa Salad Recipe in colorful bowls or mason jars for meal prep convenience and visual appeal. For gatherings, consider stuffing it into hollowed-out bell peppers or serving over a bed of leafy greens for an eye-catching presentation. Adding edible flowers or microgreens on the top can elevate it even further for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because the dressing is tossed with creamy avocado, it’s best enjoyed within 2 days for optimal freshness and texture. The avocado may darken over time, but a quick toss before serving revives its appeal.

Freezing

Freezing this salad is not recommended due to the presence of fresh vegetables and avocado, which can become mushy or watery after thawing. To keep your salad tasting fresh, stick to refrigerated storage and enjoy it promptly.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, allow it to sit out for 15 minutes after removing from the fridge to take off the chill before serving. Reheating is unnecessary and can diminish the crispness and freshness of the ingredients.

FAQs

Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! While quinoa offers a great protein boost and fluffy texture, you can substitute with couscous, bulgur, or even farro depending on your preference. Just be sure to cook the grain according to package instructions and cool it before assembling the salad.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this Easy Quinoa Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free as quinoa is a gluten-free grain, and none of the other ingredients contain gluten. It’s a fantastic option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I add protein to make it more filling?

Definitely! Adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, tofu, or boiled eggs can turn this salad into a more substantial meal while keeping it light and healthy. The dressing works well with a variety of proteins.

How can I make the dressing ahead of time?

You can prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Just give it a good whisk before tossing it with the salad to recombine any separated ingredients.

What’s the best way to keep avocado from browning in this salad?

Using ripe but firm avocado helps prevent quick browning. Tossing it immediately with dressing and lemon juice, which contains vitamin C, also slows oxidation. For leftovers, sprinkling a little extra lemon juice on top before sealing helps maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Quinoa Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like sunshine on a plate—vibrant, nourishing, and effortless. Whether you’re packing a lunch, feeding friends, or just craving something fresh and wholesome, this salad delivers every time. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do sharing it. Give it a try, and soon it will be one of your favorite quick meals to brighten up any day!

Easy Quinoa Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need