A vibrant, protein-packed salad that’s light, refreshing, and bursting with bright flavors. Perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch!
Category
Salad
Servings
4
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Author:
nil products
A vibrant, protein-packed salad that’s light, refreshing, and bursting with bright flavors. Perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch!
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
- 2 cups water or broth
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dressing:
Directions
Cook the Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, bring quinoa and water/broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
- Season & Grill the Chicken: Rub chicken breasts with 1 Tbsp olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Grill on medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest, then slice.
- Chop & Prep Veggies: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, red onion, and parsley.
- Make the Dressing: Whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, honey, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Salad: Toss the quinoa and veggies with half the dressing. Top with sliced chicken, crumbled feta, and drizzle the remaining dressing.
- Serve & Enjoy: Divide into bowls and dig in! This salad is delicious warm or chilled.
Recipe Note
Meal Prep Magic: Store components separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble before eating to keep it fresh!
Go Vegetarian: Swap chicken for chickpeas or grilled halloumi.
Extra Crunch: Add toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for texture.
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