Quinoa and Chickpea Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing

This vibrant and healthy Quinoa and Chickpea Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Packed with protein and fiber, it makes for a delicious and nutritious meal that is both satisfying and refreshing. The zesty lemon-tahini dressing adds a tangy and creamy finish that complements the wholesome ingredients perfectly.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed- 2 cups water- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved- 1 cucumber, diced- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Lemon-Tahini Dressing:- 1/4 cup tahini- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)- 2 tbsp olive oil- 1 garlic clove, minced- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey- Salt and pepper to taste- Water, as needed to thin the dressing

Instructions:

1. **Cook the Quinoa:** - In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. - Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, and cover the saucepan. - Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed all the water and can easily be fluffed with a fork. - Remove from the heat and let it cool.

2. **Prepare the Lemon-Tahini Dressing:** - In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and maple syrup or honey until smooth. - Season with salt and pepper to taste. - If the dressing is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

3. **Assemble the Salad:** - In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled quinoa, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and fresh parsley. - Pour the lemon-tahini dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all the ingredients evenly.

4. **Serve:** - Serve the salad immediately or chill for an hour to meld the flavors together. - Enjoy the salad on its own or as a side dish to your favorite meal.

This Quinoa and Chickpea Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing is not only delicious but also easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, making it a great addition to your healthy eating routine. Enjoy!