Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad Recipe

Bright, zesty, and bursting with fresh flavors, this Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad is a true celebration in a bowl. Fluffy quinoa mingles with crisp cucumbers, creamy white beans, tangy lime, and a refreshing cilantro dressing, making every forkful an invitation to summer—no matter the season. Whether you’re looking for the perfect side, a make-ahead lunch, or a nutritious potluck showstopper, this vibrant salad delivers both taste and nourishment in every bite. Get ready to fall in love with this easy, craveable go-to!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather your simple yet superstar ingredients and let each one shine! Every component brings a unique flavor or texture, transforming plain quinoa into a lively, colorful Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad that’s anything but ordinary.

• Quinoa (1 cup, uncooked): This protein-packed grain creates a fluffy, hearty base that soaks up all those bold flavors.
• Pinch of salt: Just a little boosts the overall taste and helps bring the salad together.
• Fresh cilantro (½ cup, with stems): The essence of the dressing, offering unbeatable freshness and a classic herby kick.
• Scallion (1, end removed): Adds a gentle onion flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Garlic (1-2 cloves, crushed): Brings bite and aroma, making the dressing irresistible.
• Plain unsweetened plant-based yogurt or extra virgin olive oil (¼ cup): Yogurt offers creaminess and tang; olive oil lends a luscious, smooth texture if you prefer.
• Lime zest (from one lime): Delivers a citrusy zip that brightens every bite.
• Lime juice (from two limes): The backbone of the dressing, balancing tang and freshness.
• Coriander (½ tsp): A warm, citrusy spice that complements the lime and cilantro.
• White wine vinegar (1 tbsp): Adds a gentle acidity, enhancing the salad’s brightness.
• Maple syrup (1 tbsp): Just a touch for sweetness to balance the zingy flavors.
• White beans (1, 15 oz can, rinsed and drained): Creamy beans add satisfying texture and protein for a more filling salad.
• Red onion (⅓ cup, finely diced): For pops of color and a sweet-sharp crunch.
• Cucumber (½, deseeded and chopped): Offers cooling, crisp bites nestled throughout.

How to Make Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Start things off by cooking your quinoa following the package instructions—typically a simple simmer in water with a pinch of salt until each grain becomes translucent and tender. Once fully cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside to cool while you prep the rest. This cooling step is key; it ensures your Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad stays light and avoids turning soggy!

Step 2: Make the Cilantro Lime Dressing

Now for the flavor bomb! In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh cilantro (yes, stems too for extra punch), scallion, crushed garlic, your choice of yogurt or olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, coriander, white wine vinegar, and maple syrup. Blend until the dressing is totally smooth and gloriously green. Give it a taste—this is where the magic happens. Adjust for more tang, sweetness, or herbs as your heart desires!

Step 3: Toss the Salad Ingredients

In a large salad bowl, combine your now-cooled quinoa, drained white beans, finely diced red onion, and chopped cucumber. Gently toss everything together. The mix should already look bright, fresh, and inviting, but resist sneaking a bite—the big flavor reveal is yet to come when you add the dressing!

Step 4: Dress and Combine

Just before serving, pour your vibrant cilantro lime dressing all over the salad. Toss thoroughly so the quinoa, beans, and veggies get coated in that tangy, herby goodness. Watch as the colors pop and the zesty aroma wafts up—trust me, you’ll want to dive in immediately.

Step 5: Taste and Chill

Season your Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad with extra salt or pepper as needed. For best flavor (and a refreshing, cool texture), let the salad chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving. This brief rest allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad

Garnishes

Finish your Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad with an extra handful of freshly torn cilantro, a sprinkle of lime zest, or some sliced radishes for a peppery crunch. A few toasted pumpkin seeds add lovely nutty crunch if you’re feeling fancy, but even a simple wedge of lime on the side elevates the presentation and lets guests add extra zing if they wish!

Side Dishes

Pair this salad with grilled vegetables, charred corn on the cob, or spicy roasted sweet potatoes for a summery feast. It’s also fantastic alongside tacos, burrito bowls, or grilled fish. Its bright flavors offer a perfect contrast to richer mains and bring balance to your table.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning your Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad into avocado halves for a fun, edible bowl, or layer it into mason jars for colorful meal-prep lunches. It also shines as a party platter topper—pile it high on a leafy greens base and arrange vibrant veggies around the edges for an eye-catching, crowd-pleasing centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it chills, making leftovers even more delicious for lunch or a speedy dinner the next day.

Freezing

While quinoa freezes well, fresh herbs and crunchy veggies can lose their texture after thawing. If you must freeze, do so before adding the dressing or the cucumbers and onions. Otherwise, the salad is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

This salad truly shines when served cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer it slightly warm, just microwave it gently (about 30 seconds) or let it sit out at room temp before enjoying. If you’ve stored the dressing separately, add it after reheating.

FAQs

Can I swap out the white beans for something else?

Absolutely! Chickpeas, black beans, or even edamame all work well in this Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad. Choose your favorite or whatever you have on hand for a flexible, protein-rich twist.

Help! My quinoa is mushy—what went wrong?

Overcooking or using too much water can lead to mushy quinoa. Make sure to use the recommended ratio and fluff it with a fork right after cooking, then let it cool before mixing with the other ingredients.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, every ingredient in the Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those with gluten sensitivities or for sharing with friends who follow a gluten-free diet.

Can I make the dressing in advance?

Definitely! Stored in a jar or airtight container, the cilantro lime dressing will keep in the fridge for up to three days. Give it a good shake or stir before tossing with your salad.

What proteins pair well if I want to make this a main dish?

Try adding grilled shrimp, shredded chicken, or crispy tofu on top of your Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad. Each brings a satisfying protein boost and melds beautifully with the bright, zesty flavors.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that’s vibrant, wholesome, and downright delicious, you have to try this Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad. The flavors are sure to convert even the biggest salad skeptics, and it’s so simple you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Enjoy every fresh, zesty bite!

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