Lunch Delight
Lunch Delight
A fresh, easy quinoa salad that works great for a quick lunch. It is light, healthy, and ready in minutes if you have cooked quinoa and chicken on hand. If you want more ideas for simple midday meals, see 12 delicious lunch ideas for more inspiration.
Why this recipe is good:
- Uses cooked quinoa for protein and fiber.
- Fresh vegetables add crunch and color.
- Optional cooked chicken makes it heartier.
- Simple lemon-olive oil dressing keeps flavors bright.
Why make this recipe
This dish is fast to put together and keeps well, so it is ideal for meal prep and packed lunches. It also works as a light dinner or a side for larger meals — similar simple salads are perfect for small gatherings and can fit with other small plates like in appetizer and dinner delights.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (optional)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, chicken (if using), feta cheese, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Serving
Serve this salad on its own, or as a side with warm bread. For a fuller plate, pair this quinoa salad with handheld options like chicken apple salad wraps for a nice mix of flavors and textures.
Storage
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Keep dressing separate if you want the salad firmer; add dressing just before eating.
- Do not freeze (feta and cucumber change texture when frozen).
Tips
- Use cooled quinoa so the salad does not get soggy.
- Taste the dressing before adding more salt; feta is salty and may reduce the need for extra salt.
- Chop ingredients to a similar size for easy eating.
- For a bright finish, add a little lemon zest on top. For a fruity side or dessert idea, try an easy apple snack such as apple delight.
Variations
- Make it vegetarian by leaving out the chicken and adding chickpeas or extra beans.
- Swap feta for goat cheese or omit cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Add olives, roasted peppers, or avocado for richer flavor.
- For a sweet finish, consider a chilled treat like chocolate ice cream delight.
FAQs
Q: Can I use any grain instead of quinoa?
A: Yes. Cooked bulgur, couscous, or farro work well with the same dressing.
Q: How can I make this gluten free?
A: This recipe is naturally gluten free if you use certified gluten-free quinoa and check other ingredient labels.
Q: Is it okay to use leftover roasted chicken?
A: Absolutely. Leftover cooked chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor.
Q: Can I double the recipe for a party?
A: Yes. Scale the ingredients up and mix in a very large bowl so everything combines well.
