First rinse and drain your quinoa using a mesh strainer or sieve. Bring a small pot to medium heat and lightly toast the quinoa to remove any excess water, stirring often. This step is optional but really adds to the nuttiness and fluff factor of the quinoa! Next add your water, set burner to high, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer, covered with the lid slightly ajar, for 12-13 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and the liquid has been absorbed.
Once your quinoa is ready, fluff with a fork and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Transfer to a medium bowl to cool.
While the quinoa cooks, chop all your veggies and make the dressing.
To make the salad dressing, whisk together all the ingredients in a small bowl or add to a mason jar (with a tight fitting lid) and shake well.
Combine cooled quinoa with chopped veggies, optional parsley, and dressing. Mix well. Top with crumbled feta and enjoy!
You can dive in right away or chill before serving. I love it both ways! If meal prepping, pop it in the fridge and dive in when your'e ready. The dressing will soak into the salad and amplify the flavor even more. Enjoy!
Notes
Recipe yields 4 side salads or 2 large quinoa bowls.Nutrition Facts below are estimated for salad with dressing using an online recipe nutrition calculator. Adjust as needed and enjoy