Indonesian Quinoa Salad
Prep
20 mins
Cook
25 mins
Servings
6
Difficulty
Easy
This Indonesian quinoa salad is one of my favorite go to meals when I want something satisfying but don't have much time. It comes together in under an hour and combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with vibrant Southeast Asian spices and textures. The chickpeas and peanuts make it incredibly filling and protein packed, so you'll stay satisfied for hours. Plus, quinoa is loaded with all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein that's perfect for vegetarians. What I love most is how affordable it is to make with simple pantry staples, yet it tastes like you spent way more effort than you actually did. Trust me, this one is a total crowd pleaser.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 400quinoa
- 300mixed vegetables
- 200chickpeas
- 150chopped peanuts
- 100palm sugar
- 50 mlsesame oil
- 2 tablespoonslime juice
- 2½ cmginger
- 2 clovesgarlic
- 2½ cmred onion
- 1 bunchcilantro
- 1 teaspoonsoy sauce
- 1 cancoconut milk
- 1 tablespoontamarind paste
- 1 teaspoonsalt
- 1 teaspoonblack pepper
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Rinse the quinoa and cook according to package instructions.
Tip: Use a medium saucepan with a lid and a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio.
- 2
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Tip: Use a non-stick skillet for easy cleanup.
- 3
Add the ginger, garlic, and red onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
Tip: Use a gentle stir to avoid mashing the vegetables.
- 4
Add the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until tender.
Tip: Don't overcook the vegetables, they should still have some crunch.
- 5
Stir in the tamarind paste, soy sauce, and salt.
Tip: Use a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
- 6
Add the cooked quinoa and stir to combine.
Tip: Make sure the quinoa is well coated with the sauce.
- 7
Stir in the coconut milk and chopped peanuts.
Tip: Use a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
- 8
Taste and adjust the seasoning with black pepper and lime juice.
Tip: Add more lime juice to brighten the flavors.
- 9
Garnish with cilantro and serve immediately.
Tip: Use a generous amount of cilantro to add freshness to the dish.
- 10
Optional: Sprinkle toasted peanuts on top for added crunch.
Tip: Use a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
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