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
- 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.
- Prepare the Herbs: Chop the fresh parsley and mint. These herbs add a burst of flavor that is characteristic of traditional tabbouleh.
- 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.
- Make the Dressing: Whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The lemony dressing enhances the freshness of the salad.
- 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.
- 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!