Quinoa Salad with Edamame and Lemon Dressing
Craving a dish that’s both delicious and nourishing? This Quinoa Salad with Edamame and Lemon Dressing is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a flavorful yet health-conscious meal. With its combination of plant-based protein, crisp veggies, and a zesty homemade dressing, this recipe is ideal for lunches, light dinners, or meal prep. Simple to make yet packed with vibrant ingredients, it’s a versatile dish that can easily become a household favorite.
What Makes This Salad Special?
1. Nutrient-Dense Goodness:
Quinoa and edamame team up to deliver a high-protein, fiber-rich base that’s satisfying and energizing. Add to that the burst of vitamins from fresh vegetables, and you’ve got a powerhouse dish.
2. Fresh, Light Flavors:
The lemon dressing adds a tangy brightness that complements the earthy quinoa and crunchy veggies, giving you a salad that tastes as good as it is healthy.
3. Inclusive and Adaptable:
This salad is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and low in fat, making it a winning option for anyone with dietary restrictions or preferences.
4. Quick and Fuss-Free:
It takes less than 30 minutes to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for busy days when you need a healthy, satisfying meal in no time.
A Nutritional Boost in Every Bite
This salad showcases quinoa, a superfood that’s both a complete protein and a great source of essential nutrients like magnesium and iron. Paired with edamame, which adds another layer of protein and healthy fats, this recipe is perfect for those looking to stay energized and nourished. The medley of vegetables not only adds crunch and flavor but also delivers a rainbow of vitamins and minerals, while the lemon dressing brings everything together with a refreshing zing.
Endless Customization Options
One of the best things about this Quinoa Salad with Edamame and Lemon Dressing is its flexibility:
- Mix in Seasonal Veggies: Try bell peppers, cucumber, or shredded cabbage for added color and crunch.
- Amp Up the Protein: Include roasted chickpeas, grilled tofu, or even your favorite lean protein like chicken or shrimp.
- Experiment with Greens: Swap out spinach for kale, arugula, or even mixed greens to suit your taste.
- Top It Off: Add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits like cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
Whether you serve it as a main course, a side dish, or a meal-prep staple, this salad is guaranteed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.
The Star of the Show: Lemon Dressing
The fresh lemon dressing elevates this dish to the next level. Made with freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and a touch of Dijon mustard, it’s the perfect blend of tangy and savory. The dressing adds a bright, citrusy punch that highlights the natural flavors of the quinoa and vegetables.
Want to tweak the flavor? Add a drizzle of honey for sweetness or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. This dressing is as versatile as the salad itself!
Tips for Preparing Ahead
This salad is a lifesaver for meal preppers. It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, and the flavors only improve as they meld together.
To keep the salad fresh and crisp, consider storing the dressing separately and tossing it in just before serving. This helps the vegetables retain their crunch and ensures every bite tastes freshly made.
Delicious Pairing Ideas
Pair this salad with other light, wholesome dishes for a complete meal:
- A warming bowl of lentil soup for a cozy and filling combo.
- Grilled or roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian feast.
- Pan-seared salmon or crispy tofu for an added protein punch.
For drinks, think refreshing: infused water with citrus and mint, chilled herbal teas, or sparkling lemonade are excellent choices.
Ideal for Every Occasion
This salad isn’t just healthy and tasty—it’s also incredibly versatile:
- Lunch on the Go: Pack it into containers for easy, portable lunches.
- Impressive Side Dish: Bring it to potlucks or barbecues and watch it disappear.
- Light Dinner: Pair it with your favorite soup or protein for a complete evening meal.
From casual family meals to more formal gatherings, this recipe shines no matter where or when it’s served.
Spotlight on the Ingredients
Quinoa: This gluten-free superfood is rich in protein, fiber, and minerals like magnesium, making it a go-to for balanced, wholesome meals.
Edamame: These green soybeans are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, antioxidants, and heart-healthy fats.
Spinach: Loaded with iron, vitamins A and C, and calcium, spinach adds a nutritious burst of green to every bite.
Lemon Dressing: Bright, tangy, and packed with vitamin C, the dressing ties all the elements together while supporting immunity and digestion.
A Recipe to Remember
This Quinoa Salad with Edamame and Lemon Dressing isn’t just a salad; it’s a celebration of wholesome, fresh ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. From its vibrant colors to its incredible health benefits, it’s a recipe that will earn a permanent spot in your meal rotation.
Ideal for post-workout recovery, casual dinners, or meal-prep Sundays, this dish proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. Try it for yourself, and see how easy it is to create something that’s both delicious and good for you.
Quinoa Salad with Edamame and Lemon Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
Directions
Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool.
Blanch edamame in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then drain.
In a large bowl, mix quinoa, edamame, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, and salt.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
2 servings
250g
- Amount per serving
- Calories230
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 5g7%
- Total Carbohydrate 25g10%
- Protein 18g
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Quinoa Salad with Edamame and Lemon Dressing is one of many healthy recipe ideas that you can find on our recipe page.
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Ingredients
Directions
Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool.
Blanch edamame in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then drain.
In a large bowl, mix quinoa, edamame, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, and salt.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well. Serve chilled or at room temperature.