Quinoa and Chickpea Protein Salad

Quinoa and Chickpea Protein Salad

This Quinoa and Chickpea Protein Salad is not only packed with protein from the quinoa, chickpeas, and Vegan Plant-Based Protein Superfood but also rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the colorful vegetables. It's a complete and satisfying meal that will keep you fueled and energized! Enjoy!

 

Ingredients:

For the salad:

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegan Plant-Based Protein Superfood:

  • 1/2 cup of Rookie Vanilla Vegan Plant-Based Protein Superfood (or hemp seeds, chia seeds, etc)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the quinoa: In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed. Once done, fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside to cool.

  2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Set the dressing aside.

  3. Combine the salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, drained and rinsed chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, and fresh parsley.

  4. Add the Vegan Plant-Based Protein Superfood: Mix in the 1/2 cup of your chosen Vegan Plant-Based Protein Superfood into the salad. This will boost the protein content and provide additional nutrients.

  5. Drizzle with dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated.

  6. Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust seasoning if needed. You can also garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of your Vegan Plant-Based Protein Superfood.

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