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In a world where healthy eating is becoming increasingly essential, the Light Citrus Quinoa Salad stands out as a refreshing and nutritious option. This vibrant dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of flavors and nutrients. Perfect for a summer picnic, a light lunch, or even as a side dish for a family gathering, this quinoa salad brings together the zest of citrus fruits, the earthiness of quinoa, and a medley of colorful vegetables. This recipe caters to health-conscious individuals, vegans, and anyone looking to incorporate more wholesome ingredients into their diet.

Light Citrus Quinoa Salad

Discover the vibrant and nutritious Light Citrus Quinoa Salad! This refreshing dish combines fluffy quinoa, colorful vegetables, and a zesty citrus dressing for a delightful flavor experience. Perfect for summer picnics or as a light lunch, it's a healthful choice that caters to vegans and the health-conscious alike. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this salad is versatile and easy to customize with your favorite seasonal ingredients. Elevate your meals with this delicious recipe!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

2 cups water or vegetable broth

Zest and juice of 1 orange

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Zest and juice of 1 lime

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1/2 red bell pepper, diced

1/4 red onion, finely chopped

1 avocado, diced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and has absorbed all the liquid. Remove from heat and keep covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and allow it to cool to room temperature.

    Prepare the Citrus Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the fresh juices from the orange, lemon, and lime, along with the zest from all three fruits. Add the olive oil, honey (if using), sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.

      Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. Drizzle the prepared citrus dressing over the salad and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.

        Add Avocado and Cheese: Just before serving, delicately fold in the diced avocado and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, if using. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as necessary.

          Serve: Delight in your Vibrant and Nutritious Light Citrus Quinoa Salad, either chilled or at room temperature! This refreshing salad serves beautifully as a light lunch, a vibrant side dish at dinner, or a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings

              Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in chilled bowls, garnished with extra cilantro leaves and a slice of citrus on the side for a pop of color!