MINI QUINOA SALAD JAR
The Mini Quinoa Salad Jar is a delightful mix of fluffy cooked quinoa, fresh cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumber, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice for a bright and wholesome bite. This small but nutrient-rich jar offers plant-based protein, fibre, vitamins and healthy fats. It’s perfectly portioned for lunchboxes, picnics or as a light snack. Easy to prepare ahead and grab whenever you need a nutritious pick-me-up, the flavours stay fresh and vibrant without becoming soggy. Plus, the layered presentation makes it visually appealing and fun to eat. Ideal for busy individuals or families, this salad jar can be customised with herbs or spices, making it versatile for various cuisines. Embrace this nutritious, convenient whole-food jar on days when you crave nourishment and freshness, which is all with minimal fuss.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Prepared in Advance, Boil
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Picnic, Spring, Summer, Potluck, Family Reunion, Graduation
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, High Fibre, Vegan, Vegetarian, Wheat/Gluten‑Free, Quick & Easy, Low/No Sugar
DISH TYPE
Salad
INGREDIENTS
- 1/4 cup cooked quinoa
- 2 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon chopped cucumber
- 1/2 teaspoon olive oil
- Dash of lemon juice
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 81.9 kcal
- Fat: 3.2 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.4 g
- Carbohydrate: 11.3 g
- Sugar: 1.3 g
- Sodium: 4.9 mg
- Fiber: 1.7 g
- Protein: 2.3 g
- Calcium: 12 mg
- Iron: 0.8 mg
- Potassium: 160.9 mg
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Mini Quinoa Salad Jar:
- Cook Quinoa: Rinse 1/4 cup quinoa under cold water and boil in 1/2 cup water. Simmer for 12 minutes until the mixture is fluffy. Drain if necessary.
- Chop Veggies: Slice 2 cherry tomatoes in half and finely chop cucumber to a tablespoon.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix quinoa, tomatoes and cucumber in a small bowl.
- Dress Salad: Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze a dash of lemon juice; toss lightly until evenly coated.
- Pack Jar: Spoon salad into a small jar or sealable container for storage or serving.
PREP TIME
10 minutes (cooking time excluded)
COOKING TIME
12 minutes
TIPS
- Fluff Quinoa Well: Use a fork to avoid clumping and keep the texture light.
- Dry Ingredients: Pat tomatoes and cucumber dry so the dressing remains crisp.
- Taste Before Packing: Adjust lemon juice and oil to suit personal preference.
VARIATIONS
- Herb Boost: Stir in fresh parsley or mint for an added burst of freshness.
- Add Crunch: Sprinkle seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower, for added texture.
- Extra Protein: Include beans, chickpeas or feta cheese for a heartier option.
- Spice It Up: Season with paprika, cumin or chilli flakes for bold flavour.
- Mix Greens: Add baby spinach or rocket to turn it into a mini salad jar.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigerate: Seal and refrigerate for up to 2 days; eat chilled for freshness.
- Layer Smart: Keep dressing below quinoa to prevent soggy vegetables.
- Make Ahead: Batch-cook quinoa and prep veggies to mix when needed.
- Freezing Not Advised: Fresh vegetables lose texture when frozen—best enjoyed fresh.