Vibrant Edamame Quinoa Medley

Delight in the freshness and vibrant flavors of this healthy Edamame Quinoa Salad, a truly satisfying plant-based meal packed with nutrient-rich superfoods and crisp, colorful vegetables. This beautifully balanced bowl features fluffy quinoa, tender edamame, and a medley of fresh herbs, all brought together with a bright, zesty lemon dressing. Topped with creamy feta cheese and crunchy pine nuts, it’s a culinary experience that’s both delicious and incredibly good for you.

A quinoa veggie bowl with edamame with a serving spoon in it

This versatile Edamame Quinoa Salad is perfect whether enjoyed as a complete meal on its own or as a vibrant side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins like grilled chicken tenders or flavorful tawook skewers. Its appeal isn’t limited by temperature; it’s equally delightful served warm or chilled, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping. Prepare a batch tonight and enjoy easy, homemade, healthy lunches throughout your week.

Why You’ll Love This Edamame Quinoa Salad

Our Edamame Quinoa Salad isn’t just another recipe; it’s a flavorful journey designed for health-conscious food lovers and busy individuals alike. Here’s why this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen:

**Effortless & Quick Preparation:** From gathering ingredients to the final toss, this entire recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute potlucks.
**Highly Adaptable & Versatile:** This salad is incredibly forgiving. Easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, proteins, or dressings to suit your dietary needs and taste preferences.
**A Timeless Crowd-Pleaser:** Some recipes simply never go out of style, and this edamame quinoa salad is one of them. Its fresh ingredients and balanced flavors appeal to a wide range of palates.
**Perfect for Meal Prep:** Prepare a large batch at the start of the week for convenient, healthy lunches or dinners. It holds up beautifully in the fridge, making your healthy eating goals achievable.
**Nutrient-Packed Powerhouse:** Loaded with plant-based protein from edamame and quinoa, fiber from fresh vegetables, and healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, this salad is a nutritional powerhouse that keeps you full and energized.
**Vibrant & Visually Appealing:** The colorful combination of red bell peppers, green edamame, and various quinoa hues makes this salad a feast for the eyes as well as the palate, sure to brighten any table.
**Delectable Flavor Profile:** Drizzled with a zesty lemon-honey dressing, it offers a delightful balance of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet notes, making every bite a joy. For a vegan option, simply substitute the honey with a pinch of sugar or maple syrup.

Key Ingredients for Your Vibrant Edamame Quinoa Salad

Crafting the perfect Edamame Quinoa Salad relies on a combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients that contribute to its distinctive texture and taste. Below is a comprehensive overview of the components you’ll need. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the bottom of this page.

For the Zesty Lemon Dressing:

**Minced Garlic:** Provides a pungent, aromatic base.
**Olive Oil:** A foundational element of Mediterranean cuisine, offering richness and healthy fats.
**Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest:** Essential for that bright, tangy, and incredibly fresh flavor. Don’t skip the zest for maximum aroma!
**Honey:** A touch of sweetness to balance the tartness (can be substituted with sugar or maple syrup for vegan).
**Yellow Mustard:** Adds a subtle tang and helps emulsify the dressing.
**Salt & Black Pepper:** Season to taste, enhancing all the other flavors.
**Dry Mint:** An optional but highly recommended ingredient that lends an authentic Mediterranean touch. Adjust to your preference.

For the Quinoa Base:

**Uncooked Quinoa (any color):** The protein-rich, gluten-free grain that forms the hearty foundation of the salad.
**Water:** For cooking the quinoa to a perfect fluffy consistency.

For the Edamame:

**Frozen Shelled Edamame:** The star ingredient, offering a delightful bite and a significant protein boost. Shelled makes preparation effortless.
**Water:** For quickly cooking the edamame.

For the Fresh Vegetable Mix:

**Red Bell Pepper:** Adds a sweet crunch and a pop of color.
**Small Red Onion:** Finely chopped, it provides a subtle sharp flavor without overpowering the salad.
**Grape Tomatoes:** Halved, these burst with juicy sweetness.
**Fresh Parsley Leaves & Cilantro Leaves:** A generous amount of chopped fresh herbs is crucial for that vibrant, aromatic finish characteristic of Mediterranean salads.

Optional Garnishes:

**Toasted Pine Nuts:** Adds a nutty flavor and satisfying crunch.
**Crumbled Feta Cheese:** Introduces a salty, creamy texture (omit for vegan).
**Sliced Kalamata Olives:** Offers a briny, savory depth that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Edamame Quinoa Salad

Preparing this wholesome Edamame Quinoa Salad is straightforward and quick, making it an excellent choice for any day of the week. Follow these detailed steps to create a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Preparing the Zesty Lemon Dressing:

Combine all dressing ingredients – minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or sugar/maple syrup), yellow mustard, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and dry mint – in a small jar or bowl.
Secure the lid on the jar (or whisk thoroughly if using a bowl) and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing is emulsified. Set aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare the other components of the salad.

Cooking Perfect Quinoa:

Place the uncooked quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water for about 30 seconds. This step is crucial for removing saponins, a natural coating that can give quinoa a bitter taste. Drain well.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly with a lid, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until all the water has the water has been absorbed by the quinoa and it appears fluffy.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the quinoa rest, still covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the steam to finish cooking the grains and makes them extra fluffy.
After resting, fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork. Transfer it to a large bowl or baking sheet to cool completely before mixing with the other salad ingredients. Cooling is essential to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Preparing the Edamame:

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the frozen shelled edamame beans with ¼ cup of water.
Microwave on high for 4-5 minutes, or until the edamame is tender-crisp and heated through. Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave.
Carefully drain any excess water from the cooked edamame. Allow it to cool slightly, or completely, before adding to the salad.

Assembling Your Vibrant Salad:

In a large, deep mixing bowl, combine the cooled cooked quinoa, prepared edamame, chopped red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, halved grape tomatoes, chopped fresh cilantro, and fresh parsley.
Pour the zesty lemon dressing over the mixture.
Toss everything gently but thoroughly, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Before serving, garnish your Edamame Quinoa Salad with your desired optional toppings: toasted pine nuts, crumbled feta cheese, and/or sliced Kalamata olives. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

For tips on keeping your fresh herbs, like parsley, crisp and vibrant longer, check out our guide on how to store parsley.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Edamame Quinoa Salad is a fantastic option for meal prepping, as it stores wonderfully. To keep your salad fresh and delicious, transfer any leftovers or prepared portions into an airtight container. Ensure it’s sealed properly or covered tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. The salad will maintain its quality and vibrant flavors for 3-5 days in the refrigerator, making it an ideal healthy lunch or quick dinner solution throughout the week.

Creative Variations to Customize Your Salad

One of the best qualities of this Edamame Quinoa Salad is its incredible versatility. Feel free to consider the provided ingredient list as a flexible guideline and unleash your culinary creativity. Here are some ideas to adapt the recipe to your personal taste and what you have on hand:

**Add Protein:** Boost the protein content by mixing in canned tuna, shredded cooked chicken, or even slices of grilled steak. Hard-boiled eggs, chopped, also make a great addition.
**Legume Boost:** Incorporate other beans like a can of rinsed and drained chickpeas, cannellini beans, or black beans for added fiber and texture.
**Herb Exploration:** Beyond cilantro and parsley, consider adding fresh dill for a distinct herbaceous note, or chopped green onions (scallions) for a milder onion flavor.
**Tangy Kick:** For an extra layer of tanginess, finely chop some dill pickles and toss them into the salad.
**Citrus Swap:** While lemon juice is classic, lime juice can offer a different bright, zesty profile.
**Nut & Seed Varieties:** Instead of pine nuts, try toasted almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds for different textures and flavors.
**Cheese Alternatives:** If feta isn’t your preference, consider crumbled goat cheese, or a dairy-free vegan feta alternative.
**Extra Veggies:** Feel free to add finely diced cucumber, grated carrots, corn kernels, or thinly sliced radishes for more crunch and nutritional variety.

A green dinner plate with grilled chicken and edamame salad

Serving Suggestions for Your Edamame Quinoa Salad

This Edamame Quinoa Salad is wonderfully adaptable and can be served in various ways to suit any occasion or mealtime. Its vibrant flavors and hearty texture make it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

**Light Main Course:** Enjoy a generous bowl of this salad on its own for a refreshing and satisfying lunch or dinner. It’s perfectly balanced with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
**Accompaniment to Grilled Meats:** Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or beef. Its fresh, tangy dressing provides a lovely contrast to rich, savory proteins. Consider pairing it with the aforementioned grilled chicken tenders or shish tawook skewers.
**BBQ or Potluck Side:** Its make-ahead friendly nature and crowd-pleasing flavors make it an excellent choice for summer gatherings, BBQs, or potlucks.
**Lunchbox Hero:** Pack it in your lunchbox for a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-transport meal that will keep you energized throughout your workday.
**Brunch Addition:** Offer it as part of a larger brunch spread, providing a fresh and lighter option alongside richer dishes.
**Add to Wraps or Pitas:** Spoon the salad into whole wheat wraps or pita bread for a quick, portable, and nutritious sandwich alternative.

More Mediterranean-Inspired Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed the fresh and wholesome flavors of our Edamame Quinoa Salad, you’ll love exploring more of our Mediterranean-inspired dishes. These recipes are perfect for expanding your healthy eating repertoire:

**Fresh Beet and Carrot Salad:** This vibrant beet and carrot salad is a symphony of bright flavors and earthy herbs, offering a colorful and nutritious addition to any meal.
**Authentic Egyptian Salad (Salata Baladi):** Don’t miss out on the truly unique and refreshing experience of Egyptian salad or salata baladi, a staple in Egyptian cuisine.
**Easy White Bean Salad:** Discover this effortless easy white bean salad, featuring a delightful homemade dressing and a medley of fresh, crisp vegetables.
**Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables:** These delicious Mediterranean roasted vegetables serve as a perfect appetizer or a flavorful side dish. They also make a fantastic topping for pasta or rice.
**Hearty Black Bean and Chickpea Salad:** A delicious and nutritious black bean and chickpea salad that works perfectly as a light lunch or a versatile side. It’s incredibly easy to make and ideal for picnics and lunch boxes.
**Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad with Kiwi Dressing:** Enjoy tender grilled chicken combined with an abundance of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a refreshing and creamy kiwi dressing. An excellent choice for a satisfying dinner or lunch.
**Simple Mediterranean Arugula Salad:** This Mediterranean arugula salad is a quick, easy, and popular summer side dish, perfect for your BBQ party. It’s a fresh, nutritious vegan option everyone will adore.
**Zesty Italian Pasta Salad:** An easy-to-make Zesty Italian Pasta Salad tossed in a delicious homemade dressing that you’re sure to love!
**Keto Greek Salad:** An impressive yet easy-to-make Keto Greek Salad, ideal for dinner parties. It’s loaded with healthy, fresh vegetables, a tangy dressing, and scrumptious feta cheese.
**Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad:** This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad offers a light and flavorful meal, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner.

Recipe Card: Edamame Quinoa Salad

Edamame Quinoa Salad

A simple yet incredibly flavorful edamame salad recipe, perfect for a healthy dinner or lunch. This vibrant quinoa veggie bowl is brimming with fresh herbs and a bright lemony dressing, all crafted in a delicious Mediterranean style.

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Diet: Halal, Vegetarian (can be vegan)

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 10

Calories: 233 kcal

Author: Amira

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

1 garlic clove, minced
4 Tablespoons olive oil
3 Tablespoons lemon juice (juice of one lemon)
2 teaspoons honey (or sugar/maple syrup for vegan)
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
1 Tablespoon lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon)
2 teaspoons salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper
1-2 teaspoons dry mint (optional, to taste)

For Cooking Quinoa:

1 cup uncooked quinoa, any color
2 cups water

For the Edamame:

1 package frozen shelled edamame (12oz/340g)
¼ cup water

The Vegetable Mix:

1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
¼ cup parsley leaves, chopped
¼ cup cilantro leaves, chopped

Optional Garnishes:

⅓ cup toasted pine nuts
½ cup crumbled feta (adjust for saltiness)
½ cup sliced Kalamata olives (adjust for saltiness)

Instructions

Make the Dressing:

In a jar or small bowl, add all dressing ingredients. If using a jar, secure the lid and shake well to combine. If using a bowl, whisk thoroughly. Set aside.

Cook the Quinoa:

Rinse quinoa in a fine mesh strainer under cold running water; drain well.
In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until water is absorbed.
Remove from heat, let rest covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Cool completely before adding to the salad.

Prepare the Edamame:

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine shelled edamame and water. Microwave for 4-5 minutes.
Drain any excess water.

Assemble the Salad:

In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, edamame, chopped bell pepper, red onion, grape tomatoes, cilantro, and parsley.
Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss well to coat all ingredients evenly.
Garnish with toasted pine nuts, crumbled feta, and/or sliced Kalamata olives, as desired.

Notes

The addition of dry mint can be quite potent; start with 1 teaspoon and add more to taste.
Remember that feta cheese and Kalamata olives contribute significant saltiness. Taste the salad before adding extra salt to avoid over-seasoning.
**Storage:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
**Variations:** This salad is very adaptable! Consider adding canned tuna or chicken, hard-boiled eggs, other beans like chickpeas, green onions, dill, or even chopped dill pickles for extra flavor. You can also swap lemon juice for lime juice.

Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate)

Please check our nutrition disclaimer policy for more information.

This recipe was first published in December 2020 and last updated on May 23, 2023, with important tips, clear step-by-step instructions, and improved readability.

We truly hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful Edamame Quinoa Salad. Your feedback is invaluable to us, so please don’t hesitate to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ star rating and share a photo of your finished dish. We love to see your culinary creations and unique twists on our recipes!

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