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Before diving into the preparation of this colorful salad, it's essential to understand the star ingredient: quinoa. Often mistaken for a grain, quinoa is actually a seed from the Chenopodium quinoa plant. It has been cultivated for thousands of years in the Andean region of South America and is celebrated for its remarkable nutritional benefits.

Weekend Fresh Summer Recipes

Beat the summer heat with this vibrant Summer Citrus Quinoa Salad! Packed with refreshing citrus fruits, crunchy veggies, and protein-rich quinoa, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. Each bite delivers a burst of flavors while providing essential vitamins and antioxidants. Easy to prepare and customizable, it's perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light meal at home. Enjoy a healthy, satisfying salad that celebrates the bounty of summer!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup quinoa, rinsed thoroughly

2 cups water or vegetable broth (for added flavor)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced into bite-sized pieces

1 bell pepper (choose any color for a vibrant dish), diced

1 ripe avocado, diced carefully

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped for a zesty bite

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped for a refreshing touch

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional, but adds creaminess)

Juice of 2 fresh limes, for tanginess

2 tablespoons olive oil, for richness

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for approximately 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and all liquid has been absorbed. After cooking, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and allow it to cool to room temperature.

    While the quinoa is cooling, prepare the vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and chopped parsley. Gently mix the vegetables together to combine their flavors.

      In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined. This dressing will enhance the salad’s freshness.

        Once the quinoa is cool, add it to the bowl of mixed vegetables. Gently toss everything together to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.

          Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and mix thoroughly until all components are generously coated with the dressing.

            If desired, finish the salad with a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese on top for an added layer of flavor and texture.

              Serve the salad either chilled or at room temperature. For an extra touch, garnish with additional lime wedges on the side for a delightful presentation.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings