Description
This Lemon Herb Quinoa with Chickpeas is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon with fresh herbs and protein-packed chickpeas. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Quinoa:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
Chickpeas:
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Herbs:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Optional:
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until quinoa is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Prepare Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, parsley, dill, and basil to the bowl with the dressing. Toss until well combined.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Sprinkle with feta cheese before serving, if desired.
Notes
- This dish can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
- For extra flavor, add chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or kalamata olives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 260 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg