Quinoa Salad With Chickpeas, Cherry Tomatoes & Cucumber
This Quinoa Salad With Chickpeas, Cherry Tomatoes & Cucumber is a fresh, light, and nourishing salad that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. Using a Simply Wholesome Pantry Instant Nourish Bowl as the base makes it a quick and convenient recipe that comes together in minutes while still delivering plenty of flavour, colour, and nutrition.
The combination of chickpeas and quinoa provides a protein-rich foundation that keeps you full and energised, making this dish ideal for lunch, dinner, or even meal-prepped work lunches. Paired with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, sweet capsicum, and peppery red onion, it’s full of vibrant flavours and textures that make each bite refreshing and delicious.
This salad is not only tasty but also versatile. It’s naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and packed with plant-based protein, but you can easily customise it by adding extra ingredients such as feta, avocado, or grilled chicken for more variety. The simple dressing of olive oil and fresh lemon juice keeps it bright and zingy, without overpowering the vegetables or the nutty flavour of quinoa.
Perfect for summer barbecues, quick weeknight meals, or as a side dish alongside grilled proteins, this recipe proves that healthy food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s also a fantastic option for anyone who wants to eat more plant-based meals without spending hours in the kitchen. The convenience of the pre-cooked nourish bowl means you can go from prep to plate in less than 10 minutes.
Whether you’re feeding the family, making a quick solo lunch, or preparing a fresh side dish to share with friends, this Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas, Cherry Tomatoes & Cucumber ticks all the boxes: easy, nutritious, and full of flavour.
Quinoa Salad With Chickpeas, Cherry Tomatoes & Cucumber
Rate this RecipeEquipment
- Microwave (for nourish bowl)
- Large mixing bowl
- Chopping Board
- Sharp Knife
- Mixing Spoon
Ingredients
- 220 g Simply Wholesome Pantry Instant Nourish Bowl Chickpeas & Quinoa
- 1 cup baby spinach roughly chopped
- 1 cup continental cucumber chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes chopped
- 1 cup yellow capsicum chopped
- 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- lemon squeeze, juice
- sea salt & cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Microwave the Simply Wholesome Pantry Instant Nourish Bowl Chickpeas & Quinoa for 30–45 seconds, or until softened.
- In a large bowl, combine the Instant Nourish Bowl, spinach, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, yellow capsicum and red onion.
- Gently toss everything together until well mixed. Add the olive oil and lemon juice and combine. Season well.
Notes
Practical Cooking Tips & Tricks
- Don’t overheat the nourish bowl, warming it just slightly helps keep the quinoa fluffy.
- Taste and adjust the lemon juice depending on how tangy you like it.
- Dice the vegetables evenly for a nice texture balance.
- Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving if you prefer it cold.
- Add extra protein like chicken, tuna, or tofu to make it a complete main meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a light main for lunch or dinner.
- Use as a fresh side dish at a barbecue.
- Pair with grilled salmon or chicken for extra protein.
- Add crumbled feta or goat’s cheese for creaminess.
- Toss through fresh herbs like parsley or mint for added flavour.
Make Ahead / Storage
- Can be made up to 24 hours ahead.
- Store covered in the fridge.
- Add delicate ingredients like avocado just before serving.
Freezer Friendly
- Not freezer-friendly due to fresh vegetables.
Meal Prep Instructions
- Chop all vegetables ahead of time and store separately in the fridge.
- Microwave the nourish bowl base when ready to eat.
- Toss everything together just before serving for maximum freshness.
Substitutions
Vegetables (5 options):- Zucchini (diced raw or lightly grilled)
- Beetroot (roasted or grated raw)
- Rocket (swap for spinach or mixed lettuce)
- Snow peas (chopped for crunch)
- Avocado (added fresh for creaminess)
- Grilled chicken strips
- Tinned tuna or salmon
- Pan-fried tofu or tempeh
FAQs
- Can I make this ahead? Yes, you can prep it up to 24 hours in advance.
- How do I store leftovers? In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Can I freeze this salad? No, fresh vegetables won’t hold up after freezing.
- Can I use a different base instead of the nourish bowl? Yes, use pre-cooked quinoa, brown rice, or couscous.
- Can I make it vegan? Yes, it’s already vegan as written.
Helpful Hints / Pro Tips
- Add avocado just before serving to avoid browning.
- Swap lemon juice for lime for a zesty twist.
- Toast the capsicum before adding for smoky flavour.
- Sprinkle with toasted almonds or seeds for crunch.
- Add fresh herbs (mint, parsley, basil) for extra freshness.
- Double the recipe for a larger crowd—it scales easily.
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