
Grain Salad
Prep
15 mins
Cook
30 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
My go to grain salad is a colorful, nourishing dish that I make constantly because it comes together in just 45 minutes from start to table. This recipe is built around quinoa, a complete protein that gives you all nine essential amino acids in every bite, making it perfect for vegetarian meals. What I love most is how adaptable it is, how budget friendly compared to many salads, and how it tastes even better the next day. The combination of fresh vegetables, tangy vinaigrette, and creamy feta creates something that feels fancy but requires almost no cooking skills. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, a lunch to pack for work, or something to bring to a potluck, this salad delivers every single time.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 400quinoa
- 237 mlchickpeas(drained and rinsed)
- 237 mlbell peppers(diced)
- 237 mlonion(diced)
- 237 mlcarrots(peeled and grated)
- 237 mlcucumber(sliced)
- 237 mltomato(diced)
- 120 mlolive oil(extra virgin)
- 60 mlapple cider vinegar(unfiltered)
- 1 gsalt
- 1 gblack pepper
- 237 mlchopped fresh parsley
- 237 mlfeta cheese(crumbled)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Rinse the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
- 2
In a medium saucepan, bring 200ml of water to a boil.
Tip: Use a saucepan with a heavy bottom for even heating.
- 3
Add the quinoa to the saucepan, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- 4
While the quinoa cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Tip: Use a large skillet to sauté the vegetables evenly.
- 5
Add the onion, bell peppers, carrots, and cucumber to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
Tip: Don’t overcook the vegetables, as they will continue to cook in the salad.
- 6
Add the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, tomato, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
Tip: Be gentle to avoid breaking the quinoa.
- 7
In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and 30ml of water.
Tip: Adjust the dressing to taste.
- 8
Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and stir to combine.
Tip: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- 9
Transfer the salad to a large serving dish and top with chopped fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese.
Tip: Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
Recipe Variations
Get AI-powered ingredient substitution suggestions.
You Might Also Like

Beergarita
My go to drink for summer gatherings is this refreshing Beergarita, and let me tell you, it's a total crowd pleaser. The combination of tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and a cold Corona creates something that tastes way more complicated than it actually is. Lime juice is packed with vitamin C, which is great for your immune system, and the whole thing takes just five minutes to throw together. Best part? It's incredibly budget friendly since you're probably already stocking most of these ingredients anyway.

Tropical Quinoa
This tropical quinoa bowl has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in just forty minutes and tastes like a mini vacation on a plate. Quinoa is one of my favorite ingredients since it's a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids, making it so satisfying and perfect for keeping energy levels steady. The combination of papaya, red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro brings vibrant flavors and colors, while the rice wine vinegar and orange zest add just the right brightness. Best part is the ingredient list is simple and affordable, yet feels fancy enough to impress anyone at your table.

Coconut & raspberry crush
Have you tried making a drink that's both refreshing and genuinely good for you? This coconut and raspberry crush is my go to when I want something special without the fuss. The best part is how quick it comes together in just ten minutes of prep. Coconut water is absolutely fantastic for hydration, packed with natural electrolytes that your body actually needs. I love combining it with tart raspberries and a hint of mint for that perfect balance of sweet and zingy. It's simple, it's delicious, and honestly, it feels like you're treating yourself to something fancy.
Reviews
Sign in to write a review.