Tabbouleh Salad with Quinoa

Name: Tabbouleh Salad with Quinoa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups water; 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; ½ cup fresh mint, finely chopped; 1 medium tomato, diced; 1 cucumber, diced; ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped; 2 lemons, juiced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Recipes

I absolutely love making Tabbouleh Salad with Quinoa, as it combines refreshing ingredients that brighten my day. Using quinoa instead of traditional bulgur gives this classic dish a delightful twist while boosting the protein content. It's the perfect recipe to enjoy during warm weather or as a light side dish. With the vibrant flavors of parsley, mint, and lemon, every bite feels like a taste of the Mediterranean. I often prepare this salad for gatherings, as it's not only delicious but also colorful and eye-catching.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-30T05:13:27.945Z

When I first experimented with Tabbouleh, I was taken aback by how versatile the dish could be. I decided to use quinoa for added nutrition and a nutty flavor that complements the fresh herbs beautifully. I found that incorporating a little extra lemon juice really brightens the salad and brings all the flavors together, creating a symphony of tastes in each bite.

I've discovered that letting the salad sit for a few minutes before serving helps to enhance the flavors significantly. This dish is as satisfying as it is simple, making it a go-to recipe not just for lunches, but also for potlucks and picnics. Trust me, once you make it once, you'll want to prepare it again and again.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutty quinoa adds a wholesome twist to this classic salad
Refreshing herbs and lemon create a vibrant, zesty flavor
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days

Choosing Fresh Ingredients

For the best flavor in your Tabbouleh Salad with Quinoa, selecting fresh ingredients is paramount. When choosing parsley, opt for bright green leaves that are free from wilting or yellowing. Fresh mint should also be vivid and aromatic. The tomatoes and cucumber should be firm and ripe, providing a juicy contrast to the nutty quinoa. In a salad where herbs are the star, freshness translates into brightness in every bite.

Don’t overlook the importance of high-quality olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Olive oil adds depth and a luxurious mouthfeel, while freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the salad's zest and balances the earthiness of the quinoa. If you're in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will suffice, but fresh really makes a difference in flavor.

Perfecting the Quinoa Texture

Getting the quinoa just right is essential for a satisfying salad. After rinsing the quinoa, cooking it correctly is key—bring it to a boil to activate the grains, then reduce the heat. You want to simmer it gently so that it steams rather than boils, leading to fluffy quinoa rather than a gummy texture. Once cooked, let it rest off the heat; this will help the grains separate and cool without becoming mushy.

If you find your quinoa sticking together, you can fluff it with a fork after it cools. This simple step helps to aerate the quinoa, making it perfect for mixing with the chopped vegetables. Remember to let it cool completely before combining it with the fresh ingredients, as warm quinoa can slightly wilt the herbs, diminishing their vibrant taste.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Tabbouleh Salad with Quinoa is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator. Keep the salad in an airtight container, where it will stay fresh for up to three days. Just be aware that the consistency may change slightly as the quinoa absorbs dressing over time. To revive the flavors, you can add a little more lemon juice and olive oil before serving.

This salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a light main dish, or pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. It also makes a colorful addition to potlucks and barbecues, and can easily be doubled or halved depending on your needs. If you're looking for a twist, consider adding chopped bell peppers or incorporating feta cheese for a salty kick.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make a delicious Tabbouleh Salad with Quinoa:

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
½ cup fresh mint, finely chopped
1 medium tomato, diced
1 cucumber, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
2 lemons, juiced
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Tabbouleh Salad with Quinoa:

Cook the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the quinoa is cooking, chop the parsley, mint, tomato, cucumber, and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Combine and Dress

Add the cooled quinoa to the bowl of chopped vegetables. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well.

Chill and Serve

Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider topping with chickpeas or feta cheese. Adjust the herbs according to your taste preferences, and feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like bell peppers.

Nutritional Benefits

Using quinoa instead of bulgur not only caters to gluten-free diets—it's also higher in protein and essential amino acids. This swap enhances the nutritional profile of Tabbouleh Salad, making it an ideal choice for a light yet satisfying meal. Additionally, the fresh vegetables contribute vitamins and antioxidants, supporting a healthy lifestyle.

Each serving of this salad packs fiber, thanks to the vegetables and quinoa. This means you’ll feel fuller, longer, which can be particularly beneficial for those looking to maintain or lose weight. The herbs like parsley and mint also have numerous health benefits, such as aiding digestion and providing anti-inflammatory properties.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with flavor when making Tabbouleh Salad with Quinoa. While traditional recipes highlight parsley and mint, other vibrant herbs like cilantro or dill can add new dimensions. You might also include ingredients like pomegranate seeds or radishes for an added crunch and burst of sweetness.

If you prefer a kick of heat, a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeño can elevate the dish. You can also customize the acidity by adjusting the amount of lemon juice or adding a splash of red wine vinegar. These tweaks can make your tabbouleh uniquely yours while keeping its essence intact.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling up your Tabbouleh Salad with Quinoa is straightforward. For larger gatherings, simply increase the ingredient quantities proportionally. Keep in mind that cooking times can remain the same—it’s primarily the preparation of the chopped vegetables that requires time. Consider having some extra hands to help with chopping.

If you’re making a smaller batch, try halving the ingredients. This salad is forgiving, and the ratios can be adjusted to fit your preference. A little extra lemon juice or herbs won’t hurt—feel free to taste as you go and adjust to suit your palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! It's best to prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! Quinoa is a gluten-free grain, making this salad suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

If you prefer, you can substitute bulgur wheat or couscous, though that will alter the final nutritional profile.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or even olives for additional flavor and texture.