Description
A vibrant and nutritious quinoa chickpea salad that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with hearty chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a hint of curry, all cooked in a citrusy orange juice and water base. This easy-to-make dish is perfect as a wholesome lunch or light dinner and is packed with protein, fiber, and fresh herbs for a refreshing taste.
Ingredients
Liquids
- 1-1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup orange juice
Salad Ingredients
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas or garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 medium tomatoes, seeded and chopped
- 1 medium sweet red pepper, julienned
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 cup minced fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Combine the liquids: In a medium saucepan, bring the 1-1/2 cups water and 1/2 cup orange juice to a boil to create a flavorful base for cooking the quinoa.
- Add the main ingredients: Stir in the rinsed quinoa, chickpeas, seeded and chopped tomatoes, julienned red pepper, finely chopped red onion, raisins, and curry powder. Return the mixture to a boil to incorporate all the flavors thoroughly.
- Simmer and meld: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. This slow simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Finish with fresh herbs: Remove the pan from heat, fluff the quinoa gently with a fork to separate the grains, and sprinkle the minced fresh cilantro over the salad for a bright, herby finish before serving.
Notes
- For best results with dried chickpeas, soak them in cold water for 8 to 12 hours or overnight before cooking.
- If using canned chickpeas, save the liquid (aquafaba) for use in vegan recipes like vegan meringues or as an egg substitute.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of curry powder to your preferred spice level.
- This salad can be served warm or chilled, making it versatile for any season.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice before serving for extra tanginess if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion