Tomato Quinoa Salad

Recipe By:

Juniper

Posted:

August 3, 2025

Updated:

August 3, 2025

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It’s time to add another tasty quinoa recipe to our meal prep game! This Tomato Quinoa Salad is fast, flavorful, and easily made in advance for speedy lunches and sides for work, school, or home! Feel free to double this recipe if needed; it’s so easy to do!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This salad can be ready in just 22 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from quinoa and chickpeas, this dish offers a healthy boost.
Flavorful Dressing: The combination of lime juice and avocado oil gives the salad a zesty kick that enhances every bite.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish, side, or even a light snack—it’s suitable for any occasion!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Easily prepare this salad in advance and store it in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier. Here are some essentials you’ll need to make your Tomato Quinoa Salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mesh strainer
Small pot
Fork
Chopping board
Knife
Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Mesh strainer: Ideal for rinsing quinoa thoroughly to remove its natural coating for better flavor.
Small pot: Perfectly sized for cooking quinoa without wasting energy or resources.
Mixing bowl: Helps combine all ingredients effectively, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup dry quinoa
– 3/4 cup water
– 2-3 cups chopped/sliced tomato
– 15 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped green onion
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from 2 limes)
– 2 TBSP avocado oil
– 1 clove garlic (smashed and minced)
– 1 TBSP fresh chopped parsley
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp sea salt
– 1/8 tsp pepper
– additional fresh chopped parsley (to taste)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Tomato Quinoa Salad

Step 1: Rinse the Quinoa

First rinse and drain your quinoa using a mesh strainer or sieve. Bring a small pot to medium heat and lightly toast the quinoa to remove any excess water. Stir as it toasts for just a few minutes. This step is optional but really adds to the nuttiness and fluff factor of the quinoa! Next, add your water, set burner to high, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer with the lid slightly ajar for 12-13 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 2: Prepare Additional Ingredients

While the quinoa cooks, chop, slice, and prep the remaining ingredients. This will speed up assembly once your quinoa is ready.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

To make the dressing, combine avocado oil (or healthy oil of your choosing) with fresh lime juice, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your quinoa is ready, fluff it with a fork and allow it to cool (I usually pop mine in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes). Then combine it with tomatoes, green onion, chickpeas, and any extra parsley you’d like! I usually add 2-3 TBSP of extra parsley – I love the flavor! Toss salad with half of the dressing and dive in! Drizzle extra dressing on the salad as desired and feel free to add any additional seasoning to taste.

This Tomato Quinoa Salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing—perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo at home!

How to Serve Tomato Quinoa Salad

Tomato Quinoa Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether as a main course, side dish, or packed for lunch, this salad shines in various settings. Here are some great serving ideas to elevate your meal experience.

As a Main Course

Pair with grilled vegetables: Add grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a hearty meal.
Serve with avocado slices: Creamy avocado complements the salad and adds healthy fats.

As a Side Dish

Accompany with roasted chicken: This salad pairs perfectly with juicy roasted chicken for a balanced meal.
Enjoy alongside fish: The fresh flavors of the salad enhance dishes like salmon or tilapia.

In Wraps or Pitas

Stuff into whole-grain wraps: Use the salad as a filling for wraps, adding extra greens if desired.
Fill pita pockets: Tomato Quinoa Salad fits perfectly inside pita bread for a quick lunch option.

For Meal Prep

Pack in mason jars: Layer the salad in jars for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
Make ahead for picnics: Prepare in advance and enjoy it cold at your next outdoor gathering.

How to Perfect Tomato Quinoa Salad

To make sure your Tomato Quinoa Salad is always at its best, consider these helpful tips.

Rinse quinoa thoroughly: This removes bitter saponins and enhances flavor.
Toast quinoa lightly: Toasting adds nuttiness and improves texture before cooking.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and herbs elevate the overall taste and nutrition.
Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lime juice to suit your preference.
Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill helps flavors meld together beautifully.
Add protein: Boost nutrition by incorporating additional chickpeas or even grilled chicken.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato Quinoa Salad

Tomato Quinoa Salad makes an excellent accompaniment to various dishes. Here are some delicious side options that pair well.

Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds color and flavor.
Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus alongside crispy pita chips offers a delightful contrast.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances the acidity of the salad.
Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt-based sauce complements spicy meals wonderfully.
Baked Falafel: Crispy falafel provides added protein while keeping things plant-based.
Quinoa-Stuffed Peppers: These stuffed peppers mirror the flavors of the salad while being filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tomato Quinoa Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

Skipping the rinsing step: Not rinsing quinoa before cooking can lead to a bitter taste. Always rinse your quinoa in a mesh strainer to remove the saponins.
Overcooking the quinoa: Cooking quinoa for too long can make it mushy. Aim for 12-13 minutes of simmering for perfectly fluffy quinoa.
Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality tomatoes or stale spices can dull the flavors in your salad. Opt for fresh, ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs for the best results.
Not allowing quinoa to cool: Mixing warm quinoa with cold ingredients can cause wilting. Allow it to cool completely before combining with other ingredients.
Using too much dressing: Overdressing your salad can make it soggy. Start with half of the dressing and add more as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store your Tomato Quinoa Salad in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3-5 days in the fridge.
Keep any additional dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Freezing Tomato Quinoa Salad

This salad isn’t ideal for freezing because of its fresh ingredients.
If you must freeze, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Tomato Quinoa Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place salad in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Place salad in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water, and stir gently until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a Tomato Quinoa Salad vegan?

You are already on track! This recipe is naturally vegan by using chickpeas and fresh vegetables without any animal products.

Can I customize my Tomato Quinoa Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like cucumbers, bell peppers, or even avocado for added flavor and nutrition.

What is the best way to serve Tomato Quinoa Salad?

Serve it chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light lunch option. It’s perfect for picnics or potlucks!

How long does Tomato Quinoa Salad last?

The salad lasts about 3-5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. Just keep an eye on freshness!

Final Thoughts

Tomato Quinoa Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a quick side dish, this salad is sure to impress! Give it a try and discover how easy healthy eating can be!