Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base Ingredients:
Start by cooking your quinoa (or other grain of choice) according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside to cool slightly.
If you’re using chicken, grill, bake, or sauté the chicken breast until fully cooked (about 6-7 minutes per side for grilling or pan-searing). Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips. For a plant-based version, swap the chicken for grilled tempeh, tofu, or another plant protein.
2. Prep the Vegetables:
While the quinoa and chicken are cooking, prep your vegetables. Dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion. If you’re using avocado, slice it into wedges or cubes. You can also toast your choice of nuts or seeds (if using) in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned to enhance their flavor.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk or shake well to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, add the mixed greens as the base. Then, layer on the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, diced cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and sliced chicken (or other protein). Add the avocado slices and crumbled feta cheese (if using) on top.
5. Dress and Toss:
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined. Top with roasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
6. Serve:
Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for a great make-ahead meal. If you’re meal prepping, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the salad from getting soggy.
Why This Salad Works as a Main Meal:
This Epic Protein Salad is loaded with whole, nutrient-dense ingredients, making it much more than just a simple side dish. The quinoa provides a filling base of fiber and protein, while the chickpeas add even more plant-based protein. The chicken breast (or tofu/tempeh) ensures that you’re getting a good dose of lean protein, and the addition of avocado delivers healthy fats for a satisfying, heart-healthy meal. Together, these ingredients form a well-balanced dish that will keep you full and satisfied for hours.
The variety of textures—from the crunch of the roasted nuts to the creaminess of the avocado—makes every bite interesting. Plus, the tangy, zesty dressing ties everything together, adding layers of flavor to an otherwise simple dish.
ENJOY AND PLEASE SHARE THIS RECIPE WITH YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS FOR MORE EASY RECIPESTHANK YOU SO MUCH
