Quinoa broccoli salad

Total calories per serving: Approximately 138 calories
Enjoy this refreshing and filling quinoa broccoli salad as a light meal or a side dish during your weight loss journey. It’s a perfect make-ahead option for busy weekdays or a healthy addition to your lunch or dinner.

Ingredients (2 servings):

• 1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup broccoli- lightly steamed
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
• 1/4 cup finely chopped tomatoes
• 2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp olive oil or mustard oil
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 1/4 tsp red chili powder (or to taste)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the quinoa and cook it with 1 cup of wate.. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until quinoa is cooked and liquid is absorbed. Set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled quinoa, lightly steamed broccoli florets, diced cucumber, chopped onions, and chopped tomatoes.
3. In a small bowl, make the dressing by mixing together lemon juice, olive oil or mustard oil, cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt.
4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa-broccoli mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Finally, add the fresh coriander leaves and mix well.
6. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Approximate Calorie Count per serving:

• 1/4 cup cooked quinoa: 55 calories
• 1/2 cup broccoli florets: 15 calories
• 1/4 cucumber: 8 calories
• 1/4 cup onions: 11 calories
• 1/4 cup tomatoes: 9 calories
• 1 tsp olive oil or mustard oil: 40 calories

Tips

This quinoa broccoli salad is a delightful and nutritious option for weight loss. Quinoa provides a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, while broccoli is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetable loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The addition of cucumber, onions, and tomatoes adds crunch, flavor, and further boosts the nutritional value of the salad.