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Fresh, bright, and packed with flavor — this Summertime Quinoa Salad is the perfect side dish for warm-weather meals.

Whether you are headed to a backyard BBQ, packing up for a picnic, or just looking for a light lunch, this easy quinoa salad brings together crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette in every bite.

One of my favorite things about this salad is how simple it is to throw together while still looking beautiful on the table. The fluffy quinoa pairs perfectly with crunchy cucumber, juicy tomatoes, sharp red onion, and fresh parsley for a dish that tastes like sunshine in a bowl.

It is also naturally vegetarian, full of protein from the quinoa, and easy to make ahead for meal prep during busy summer weeks.Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Light and refreshing for hot summer days
• Great for cookouts, potlucks, and picnics
• Easy to make ahead
• Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs
• Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian
• Delicious served cold or at room temperature

Tips for the Best Quinoa Salad

• For extra flavor, add crumbled feta cheese or sliced avocado.
• Rinse your quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness.
• Let the quinoa cool completely before mixing with the vegetables.
• Fresh lemon juice makes all the difference in the dressing.
• Taste and adjust the salt and pepper before serving.

Ingredients Needed for Summertime Quinoa Salad

• 2 cups of Quinoa
• 1 Cucumber seeded and diced
• 1/2 a red onion diced
• 1 clove of garlic, chopped
• 1/2 cup parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon. juiced
• 2 teaspoons of mustard
• 3/4 cup of olive oil
• salt
• pepper

How to Make Summertime Quinoa Salad

1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and allow it to cool completely.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, cucumber, red onion, garlic, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the lemon juice, mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss well to coat everything evenly.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

What to Serve With Summertime Quinoa Salad

This Summertime Quinoa salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, burgers, seafood, or sandwiches. It is also delicious all on its own as a light lunch or healthy meal prep option.

Try serving it alongside:

• Grilled lemon chicken
• Blackstone Smash burgers
• BBQ ribs
• Grilled shrimp skewers
• Fresh fruit and iced tea

How to Store Leftovers for Summertime Quinoa Salad

Store leftover Summertime quinoa salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep.