This turmeric quinoa salad is an easy, flavorful way to pack your meal with protein, fiber, and antioxidants.
The recipe features fluffy quinoa infused with turmeric, crispy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices, and crunchy fresh vegetables tossed in a tangy lemon dressing.
It's perfect for meal prep or a nutritious lunch or dinner that will keep you energized.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quinoa provides a complete plant protein and a nutty base that holds the bright turmeric flavor well.
- Roasting chickpeas with turmeric and spices adds crispness and depth, balancing the fresh vegetables.
- The lemon vinaigrette brings brightness, tying all ingredients together in a harmonious, colorful dish.
Turmeric Quinoa Power Salad with Roasted Chickpeas
A vibrant, nutrient-rich salad combining turmeric-infused quinoa, crispy roasted chickpeas, and fresh vegetables for a wholesome and flavorful meal.
- Prep time
- 15 minutes
- Cook time
- 35 minutes
- Servings
- 4
- Yield
- 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed (170 g)
- 1 ¾ cups water (415 ml)
- 1 ½ tsp ground turmeric, divided
- 1 can (15 oz/425 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt, divided
- ¼ tsp black pepper, divided
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (150 g)
- 1 medium cucumber, diced (about 1 ½ cups, 150 g)
- ½ red onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup, 75 g)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (15 g)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp/45 ml)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the turmeric quinoa In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa, water, and 1 teaspoon ground turmeric. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and transfer to a large bowl to cool slightly.
- Roast the chickpeas Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat chickpeas dry with a clean kitchen towel. In a bowl, toss chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon turmeric, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until chickpeas are golden and crispy. Remove from oven and let cool.
- Prepare the vegetables and dressing While chickpeas roast, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley in a large salad bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, and remaining ¼ teaspoon salt and black pepper.
- Assemble the salad When quinoa has cooled slightly and chickpeas have cooled completely, add quinoa and roasted chickpeas to the vegetable bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately or chill for up to 1 hour before serving for more melded flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Rinsing quinoa helps remove its natural bitterness for a milder taste.
- Be sure to dry the chickpeas well before roasting to help them crisp up.
- Cool the quinoa and chickpeas before assembling to avoid wilting the fresh vegetables.
- This salad is naturally gluten-free and vegan.
- Use a thermometer to ensure roasted chickpeas have reached a safe internal temperature (at least 165°F/74°C) after roasting.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Store salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep the roasted chickpeas separate if you want them to stay crispy longer and add just before serving.
Do not freeze this salad as fresh vegetables and texture will degrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other beans instead of chickpeas?
Yes, but chickpeas roast well and hold their texture. Other beans like black beans or kidney beans may not crisp up as effectively.
How can I make this salad ahead for lunch?
Prepare and roast the chickpeas and cook quinoa a day ahead. Store separately and combine with fresh vegetables and dressing before eating.
Is turmeric safe for everyone?
Turmeric is a common spice and generally safe in culinary amounts. If you have health concerns or allergies, consult your doctor.
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