Lemony Quinoa Tabouli Recipe with Feta and Chickpeas

Introduction

Hi, I'm Chef Julie, and today we're diving into a refreshing and vibrant recipe perfect for summer: Lemony Quinoa Tabbouleh with Feta and Chickpeas. This dish takes a delightful twist on traditional tabbouleh by incorporating quinoa, a versatile grain from South America, instead of bulgur. Partnered with store-brand ingredients from Aldi, this recipe is not only delicious but also cost-effective and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • Water and salt for cooking quinoa
  • Fresh parsley
  • Fresh mint
  • English cucumber
  • Grape tomatoes
  • Red onion
  • 1 can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • Feta cheese for garnishing
  • For the Dressing:
    • Lemon zest (2 teaspoons)
    • Lemon juice (3 tablespoons)
    • Olive oil (1/4 cup)
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

  1. Cook Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa and cook it in simmering salted water until all the water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Let it cool, then fluff with a fork.
  2. Prepare the Herbs: Chop the fresh parsley and mint. These herbs add a burst of flavor that is characteristic of traditional tabbouleh.
  3. Prep the Veggies: Slice the English cucumber in half, remove the seeds, and dice. Halve the grape tomatoes and mince the red onion. These add crunch and sweetness to the dish.
  4. Make the Dressing: Whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The lemony dressing enhances the freshness of the salad.
  5. Combine: In a large bowl, mix the cooled quinoa with the prepared herbs, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and chickpeas. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the tabbouleh to a serving bowl and garnish with crumbled feta cheese. The cheese adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that complements the lemony dressing and fresh vegetables.

Conclusion

This Lemony Quinoa Tabbouleh with Feta and Chickpeas is a delightful, easy-to-make salad that's perfect for summer entertaining, picnics, or a nutritious lunch. It's full of fresh flavors, textures, and colors, making it a hit for any occasion. The addition of chickpeas provides protein, making this dish satisfying enough to serve as a main. Prepare it ahead of time to simplify your party preparations or to have a healthy meal ready to go. Enjoy the bright, summery flavors of this delicious quinoa tabbouleh!