Name: Herbed Quinoa Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed thoroughly; 2 cups water (for cooking quinoa); 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup tahini; 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Water, as needed to thin dressing; Toasted almonds or walnuts, for crunch; Grilled smoked turkey slices or smoked turkey bacon, for added protein; Baby spinach or arugula, to enhance greens; Crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños, for spice; Plant-based yogurt or avocado, to add creaminess; Toasted pine nuts, for garnish; Extra fresh herbs, for garnish; Drizzle of olive oil, for garnish

If you’re looking to brighten your meals with a vibrant, wholesome dish, the Herbed Quinoa Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing is your new go-to. This refreshing salad blends fluffy quinoa, protein-packed chickpeas, and a lively mix of fresh herbs, all tied together with a zesty lemon tahini dressing that sings with every bite. Whether you need a nutritious lunch or a side that elevates any dinner, this salad offers incredible flavor, texture, and nourishment in one colorful bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh and Flavorful: Every ingredient bursts with freshness, from the green herbs to the zesty lemon dressing.
Nutritious Powerhouse: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins for sustained energy.
Quick and Easy: Simple steps and pantry-friendly ingredients make it a quick fix for busy days.
Versatile and Adaptable: Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a light dinner enjoy it cold or at room temperature.
Perfect for All Diets: Naturally plant-based, gluten-free, and satisfying for all tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Herbed Quinoa Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing shines thanks to its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating balance, from fluffy quinoa for texture to the bright herbs that add refreshing notes, and the creamy lemon tahini dressing that ties it all together with tangy richness.

Quinoa: The base grain, cooked fluffy to add a nutty texture and a hearty bite.
Chickpeas: Canned or cooked from dry, these add protein and creamy firmness.
Fresh herbs: Parsley, cilantro, and mint bring a burst of green vibrancy and aroma.
Cherry tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, these add pops of color and freshness.
Cucumber: Crunchy and cooling, balancing out the tangy dressing.
Red onion: Thinly sliced for a mild, sharp contrast to the other flavors.
Lemon tahini dressing: Made with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of apple cider vinegar for tang.
Extra virgin olive oil: Boosts richness and depth in the dressing.
Salt and pepper: To season and enhance all ingredient flavors.

Variations for Herbed Quinoa Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing

This salad is super flexible and easy to customize, whether you want to switch up herbs, add more protein, or tailor it to your personal taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some simple ways to make it your own.

Add crunch: Toss in toasted almonds or walnuts for a satisfying nutty texture.
Boost protein: Include grilled smoked turkey slices or smoked turkey bacon for a savory twist.
Switch up greens: Replace or add baby spinach or arugula for extra leafy goodness.
Spice it up: Sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for heat.
Make it creamier: Stir in a spoonful of plant-based yogurt or avocado for extra creaminess.

Refresh with Herbed Quinoa Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing

How to Make Herbed Quinoa Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness, then combine it with water in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy and the water is absorbed. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs

While the quinoa cooks, chop your fresh herbs finely, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, and thinly slice red onion. This prep adds a fresh and vibrant base to your salad.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Tahini Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together tahini, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. If the dressing is too thick, add a small splash of water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chickpeas, veggies, and chopped herbs. Pour the lemon tahini dressing over and toss gently until everything is evenly coated and vibrant.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Serve immediately or chill for a refreshing cold salad later.

Pro Tips for Making Herbed Quinoa Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing

Cook quinoa perfectly: Rinse quinoa before cooking to avoid bitterness and use a 2:1 water to quinoa ratio for fluffy grains.
Chill quinoa before mixing: Cold quinoa helps keep the salad fresh and prevents it from becoming mushy.
Balance the dressing: Adjust lemon juice or tahini levels to suit your preferred tanginess and creaminess.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley, cilantro, and mint are key to achieving that bright, garden-fresh flavor.
Garnish last: Add delicate herbs or nuts just before serving to maintain their texture and color.

How to Serve Herbed Quinoa Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing

Garnishes

Top your salad with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts, extra fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil for a polished, flavorful finish.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, a fresh pita bread, or a simple bowl of lentil soup to make a complete, wholesome meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in mason jars for easy transport on-the-go, layer it over mixed greens for a hearty salad plate, or use it as a vibrant filling for lettuce wraps or gluten-free tacos.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Herbed Quinoa Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving as the dressing may settle.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated; freezing is not recommended as the texture of the vegetables and dressing can change.

Reheating

If desired, allow the salad to come to room temperature before serving, but avoid heating as the freshness and crunch are key to its appeal.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad vegan?

Absolutely! The Herbed Quinoa Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing is naturally plant-based and vegan-friendly without any modifications needed.

How long does the salad stay fresh?

Stored properly in the fridge, it stays fresh and tasty for up to three days, making it great for meal prep.

Can I substitute quinoa with another grain?

Yes, you can swap quinoa for couscous, bulgur, or brown rice, but quinoa adds a particularly light and fluffy texture that complements the dressing.

Is the dressing gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients in the lemon tahini dressing are naturally gluten-free, making this salad safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, shredded carrots, or roasted sweet potatoes to personalize your salad.

Final Thoughts

The Herbed Quinoa Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing is truly one of those dishes that feels like a fresh breeze on your plate. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor and nutrients, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re seeking a vibrant lunch, a light dinner, or a stunning side dish, this salad will quickly become a favorite you want to make again and again. Give it a try, and enjoy every colorful, zesty bite!

Herbed Quinoa Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing

Author: Anthony
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free, Plant-Based, Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

A vibrant and wholesome Herbed Quinoa Chickpea Salad with a zesty lemon tahini dressing that combines fluffy quinoa, protein-rich chickpeas, fresh herbs, and crisp vegetables. Perfect as a nutritious lunch, a light dinner, or a flavorful side dish, this salad offers fresh, bold flavors and a satisfying texture in every bite.

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness. Combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and all the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs: While the quinoa cooks, finely chop the parsley, cilantro, and mint. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion. Set these aside for assembling the salad.
Make the Lemon Tahini Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the tahini, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground pepper until smooth and creamy. If the dressing is too thick, add a small splash of water gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chickpeas, chopped herbs, and prepared vegetables. Pour the lemon tahini dressing over the mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated and vibrant.
Adjust and Serve: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate to serve chilled later. Garnish with toasted pine nuts, extra fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

Rinse quinoa before cooking to avoid bitterness and use a 2:1 water to quinoa ratio for fluffy grains.
Allow the quinoa to cool completely before mixing to maintain salad texture.
Adjust lemon juice and tahini amounts in the dressing to balance tanginess and creaminess according to your preference.
Utilize fresh parsley, cilantro, and mint for the best vibrant flavor.
Add garnishes such as nuts or delicate herbs just before serving to preserve their texture and color.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; stir well before serving.
Freezing not recommended as texture and flavor may be compromised.
Serve at room temperature or chilled avoid reheating to keep freshness and crunch.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: Mediterranean