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This post is all about Lunch Meal Prep.
This roasted chickpea quinoa salad is a nutritious and filling meal prep option perfect for busy weekdays. Packed with over 30g of protein per serving it combines hearty quinoa, crispy roasted chickpeas and fresh vegetables for a balanced dish.
The recipe is simple to prepare and can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. Making it ideal for meal prepping. Customize it with your favorite veggies or dressings to suit your taste.
This recipe is great and an easy and quick Lunch Meal Prep Idea.
Ingredients for a Wholesome Salad
The foundation of this roasted chickpea quinoa salad lies in its wholesome ingredients.
Fluffy quinoa serves as the base, providing a light yet filling texture.
Complementing the quinoa are crispy roasted chickpeas, which add a delightful crunch and boost the protein content significantly.
Colorful bell peppers and fresh cucumbers not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute essential vitamins and minerals.
Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon elevate the dish with vibrant flavors and a refreshing finish.
Preparation Steps Made Simple
Preparing this salad is straightforward and can be accomplished in about 45 minutes.
Start by cooking the quinoa in water or vegetable broth until it becomes fluffy and tender.
While the quinoa is cooking, roast the chickpeas with olive oil and spices until they achieve a crispy texture.
Once both components are ready, combine them in a large bowl along with the diced vegetables and parsley.
Finish by drizzling lemon juice over the mixture, tossing it gently to combine all the flavors.
Customizing Your Salad
This salad is versatile, allowing for various customizations to suit personal preferences.
Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season.
Adding toppings like feta cheese or avocado can enhance the creaminess and flavor profile.
Experimenting with different dressings can also provide a new twist to this nutritious dish.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
This roasted chickpea quinoa salad is perfect for meal prepping.
Once prepared, it can be stored in the refrigerator for several days, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays.
Divide the salad into individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals.
Just be sure to keep any additional toppings separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.
Nutritional Benefits
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits.
Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake.
With a balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fiber, this dish supports sustained energy levels throughout the day.
Additionally, the variety of vegetables provides essential nutrients that contribute to overall health and well-being.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve this salad alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein.
It can also be enjoyed as a side dish at gatherings or picnics, showcasing its vibrant colors and appealing presentation.
Pairing it with a light vinaigrette or yogurt dressing can further enhance the flavors, making it a delightful addition to any table.
Easy Roasted Chickpea Quinoa Salad Recipe
This salad features fluffy quinoa paired with seasoned roasted chickpeas, colorful bell peppers, and crisp cucumbers. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Optional: feta cheese or avocado for topping
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Roast the Chickpeas: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted chickpeas, diced bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle with lemon juice and toss to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately or divide into meal prep containers for the week. Top with feta cheese or avocado if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
