This quinoa pasta salad with crisp cucumber offers a burst of freshness in every bite. Featuring tender quinoa pasta mingled with vibrant diced cucumber, bell pepper, and a zesty herbaceous dressing, this salad delivers a symphony of flavors and textures. The medley of ingredients, including parsley and optional mint leaves, harmonizes effortlessly with the tangy dressing of lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and extra-virgin olive oil. This versatile dish welcomes personalization with add-ins like cherry tomatoes, olives, or feta cheese, creating a customizable and satisfying salad perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side at any gathering.

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces quinoa pasta (or any other pasta of your choice)
  • 1 large cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional add-ins: cherry tomatoes, olives, crumbled feta cheese, chickpeas

Instructions:

  1. Cook the quinoa pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled quinoa pasta with diced cucumber, chopped red onion, diced bell pepper, chopped parsley, and chopped mint leaves (if using).
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
  5. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning or add more lemon juice/vinegar if desired.
  6. If using optional add-ins like cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, or chickpeas, add them to the salad and gently toss to combine.
  7. Refrigerate the quinoa pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Calories: Around 250-300 calories
  • Total Fat: Approximately 10-15g
  • Saturated Fat: Around 1-2g
  • Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40g
  • Dietary Fiber: Around 8-10g
  • Sugars: Approximately 6-8g
  • Protein: Around 10-12g