Easy Detox Quinoa Salad Recipe | 10 Minutes or Less - Simply Quinoa (2024)

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A superfood packed salad that's full of detoxifying ingredients, this detox quinoa salad comes together in minutes and is also gluten-free and vegan.

Easy Detox Quinoa Salad Recipe | 10 Minutes or Less - Simply Quinoa (1)

this recipe

I think the most sacred part about food is its ability to heal. And not in just the curb your cravings kind of way (lookin' at you chocolate!). I mean really heal us from the inside out.

If you remove all the flavors and aromas that come with food and think about its purpose, what I'm saying makes sense. Our ancestors weren't necessarily concerned with how their food tasted. They needed it to survive. Food is our fuel. It's what helps keep our cells and organs working, and without it, we wouldn't be here.

So if and/or when you find yourself reaching for something that isn't so healthy (like chips, cookies, french fries, etc.),try thinking about this: everything we put into our bodies either helps or hinders how we function.

Wouldn't we want to make sure that we're eating the best possible ingredients we can source?

Easy Detox Quinoa Salad Recipe | 10 Minutes or Less - Simply Quinoa (2)

Why This Detox Quinoa Salad Rocks

As this idea continues to grow and gets more attention, and the wellness world continues to expand, we as consumers are getting smarter. We're learning, we're evolving and with that change, the market shifts with us.

You can now find healthy, nutrient-dense food is becoming more accessible to us every day. It's available at airports, gas stations, restaurant menus, even fast food chains. And is almost as if eating healthy has become our new normal. It's embraced and celebrated.

So that's what we're doing with this detox quinoa salad. We're making healthy food taste good, but also deeply nourishing for your body. Here were my goals for creating this salad:

  1. It had to be full of foods that detoxify your body
  2. It had to be a salad that was allergy friendly (this has no: gluten, dairy, meat, egg, corn, soy, nuts, shellfish or sugar)
  3. The ingredients had to be easy to find (read: anyone can make this)
  4. It had to use fewer than 10 ingredients
  5. You have to be able to make it in less than 10 minutes

Easy Detox Quinoa Salad Recipe | 10 Minutes or Less - Simply Quinoa (3)

What Foods Help with Detox?

The first was where I needed to do a little homework. I started researching foods that promoted detoxification and after getting a lot of conflicting information out there, I was able to finally narrow down a list of my 8 favorite detox foods.

To me, the term detox really means to support your internal systems that are responsible for detox. You don't need to go on any crazy cleanse or juice fast to detoxify. Your body does it naturally every single day.

So what you can do is support your organs – mainly your liver and digestive system – by feeding/fueling them with foods that help them do their jobs more effectively.

Easy Detox Quinoa Salad Recipe | 10 Minutes or Less - Simply Quinoa (4)

Our Detox-Friendly Ingredients for this Quinoa Salad

After getting my list together it guided me in the right direction and from there I was able to check off those boxes I wanted to get. And while perhaps not everyingredientin this saladis detoxifying, many of them are. From that list (and a few others), I chose to include:

  • Beets.Beets not only contain many vitamins and minerals (like zinc, iron, and magnesium), but they also support both the gallbladder and the liver. Both organs are critical to our health as they help break down food and remove toxins.
  • Lemon.Lemon is often on the forefront when we talk about detoxing; and really, who doesn't love a little lemon? Lemons are alkaline-forming, meaning they help to balance out the acidity of many of the other foods we consume. Not only that, but lemon also stimulates enzymes that help to convert toxins into a form that our bodies can more easily release.
  • Garlic. Garlic is known to repel monsters, right? Well, it works the same with toxins. It's an antiviral, an antiseptic and an antibiotic. It all helps with detoxification.
  • Arugula. Arugula is part of the cruciferous family of vegetables (think broccoli, kale, cabbage, etc.) which means it's high in fiber and antioxidants. The fiber helps keep you regular which keeps your tummy happy and your digestive system in track.

Easy Detox Quinoa Salad Recipe | 10 Minutes or Less - Simply Quinoa (5)

And on top of it all, this detox quinoa salad could not be easier to make. Really, you just toss the main salad ingredients into the bowl – arugula, steamed beets, chickpeas, and quinoa – then whisk up the dressing and toss it all together.

It makes a quick lunch, a perfect side dish or could even be eaten as a main course! Any which way you choose to whip it up, I think your taste buds and your tummy are going to be quite happy!

Easy Detox Quinoa Salad Recipe | 10 Minutes or Less - Simply Quinoa (6)

More Detox Recipes to try:

  • Copycat Whole Foods Detox Salad
  • Hidden Veggie Pineapple Green Smoothie
  • Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup
  • Super Healthy Green Detox Soup

Easy Detox Quinoa Salad

4.2 from 52 votes

This healthy detox quinoa salad combines beets, chickpeas, arugulaand quinoa into a delicious and nutritious salad packed with detoxifying properties!

author: Alyssa

yield: 2 servings

Easy Detox Quinoa Salad Recipe | 10 Minutes or Less - Simply Quinoa (7)

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep: 5 minutes minutes

Total: 5 minutes minutes

Ingredients

for the dressing:

  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon coarse mustard
  • 1 garlic clove , grated
  • 1 tablespoon water (if needed)
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, mix together all the salad ingredients.

  • Whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients. Pour of the salad and toss until everything is combined.

  • Refrigerate for 30 minutes (optional) or serve immediately.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 475kcal | Carbohydrates: 71g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 998mg | Potassium: 849mg | Fiber: 16g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 1035IU | Vitamin C: 9.2mg | Calcium: 188mg | Iron: 5.8mg

cuisine: American

course: Salad

★★★★★

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Easy Detox Quinoa Salad Recipe | 10 Minutes or Less - Simply Quinoa (8)

Filed Under:

  • Dairy Free
  • Gluten-Free
  • Lunch
  • Recipes
  • Salads
  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian
Easy Detox Quinoa Salad Recipe | 10 Minutes or Less - Simply Quinoa (2024)

FAQs

What is the healthiest way to eat quinoa? ›

3. Toss it in salads. Quinoa is a complete source of protein and makes a great addition to a healthy salad. The combination of fiber, protein and healthy fats can turn a light side salad into a robust entrée.

How do you make quinoa less gassy? ›

Some people may have trouble digesting quinoa and it's not uncommon to feel gassy after consuming it. Soaking quinoa can help make it easier for your body to break down the seed.

How much quinoa for 1 person? ›

You'll need about 50g of quinoa per person (make sure to rinse it first) and chicken or vegetable stock. We can't emphasise using stock enough. It really makes a difference to the flavour, yet is subtle enough not to distract from your final dish.

Is quinoa salad good for losing weight? ›

Compared to other popular carbs, such as corn or rice, quinoa has more protein and fiber. These nutrients can help you lose weight and are critical for weight loss and weight maintenance. Quinoa has a lower GI score and is expected to have less impact on your blood sugars than other similar carbs.

Is quinoa healthier than rice? ›

Quinoa is rich in both fiber and protein, contains a much higher amount of other nutrients, and has a similar fluffy texture to the rice. A cup of quinoa contains twice more protein and about 5 g more fiber than white rice. Quinoa contains fewer calories and carbohydrates than white rice.

What does quinoa do to your gut? ›

Quinoa is plant native to South America that is grown as a crop for its edible seeds. Several studies have suggested that quinoa has prebiotic effects, as its non-digestible ingredients stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial gut microbes.

Why does my stomach hurt after eating quinoa? ›

But for some people, eating quinoa may cause stomachaches, itchy skin, hives, and other common symptoms of food allergies. The seed and its coating contain the compound saponin, which could cause these symptoms. If you're allergic to quinoa or sensitive to saponin, it doesn't mean you have to miss out on tasty recipes.

Can too much quinoa cause gas? ›

Does quinoa cause gas and stomachaches? Allergic reaction symptoms may present as stomach or intestinal reactions, such as upset stomach, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you are allergic to quinoa, you may experience these symptoms and need to meet with your medical provider.

Can quinoa cause inflammation? ›

While quinoa may cause inflammation in some sensitive individuals, it is essential to note that it has also been demonstrated to possess anti-inflammatory properties for many others. Factors such as genetics, existing health conditions, and dietary habits can influence how an individual responds to quinoa consumption.

Is 1 cup of quinoa too much? ›

You can eat one-two cups of cooked quinoa in a day. You should avoid eating it if you experience stomachache, itchiness or vomiting after consuming it. A study by Harvard Public School of Health has reported that eating a bowl of quinoa daily is healthy and without any side effects.

How many minutes to cook quinoa? ›

Transfer quinoa to a medium pot with water (or broth) and salt. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer, uncovered, until quinoa is tender and a white "tail" appears around each grain, about 15 minutes.

How to flavor up quinoa? ›

I find that some of the best seasonings for quinoa are cumin, dried bay leaf, turmeric, and salt, and black pepper. I also love to flavor it with fresh garlic and herbs such as parsley, dill, and cilantro. You can add the seasonings of your choice into the pot at the same time with the liquid and cook it as directed.

Can I eat quinoa salad everyday? ›

A study by the Harvard Public School of Health stated that eating a bowl of quinoa daily may reduce the chances of early death risk from cancer, heart disease, respiratory ailments, diabetes, and other chronic diseases by 17%.

How much quinoa should I eat a day to lose weight? ›

Quinoa can be consumed anytime – at breakfast, lunch or dinner. But it is best to eat healthy food like quinoa before going to bed. It induces sleep, because it relaxes the muscles, due to its high magnesium and protein content. “One can eat one-two cups of cooked quinoa in a day.

Can I lose weight if I eat 3 salads a day? ›

Can you lose weight by eating a salad every day? "Eating salads on a daily basis as part of an overall healthy lifestyle may support gradual weight loss over time," says Karnatz. "This is because leafy greens are low in calories and high in volume and fiber, which will keep you satisfied for longer," she adds.

Is quinoa healthy to eat everyday? ›

You can eat one-two cups of cooked quinoa in a day. You should avoid eating it if you experience stomachache, itchiness or vomiting after consuming it. A study by Harvard Public School of Health has reported that eating a bowl of quinoa daily is healthy and without any side effects.

Is quinoa better for you cooked or raw? ›

Even though the cooking process may cause some loss of water-soluble vitamins, it doesn't undermine the nutritional value of quinoa significantly. Cooked quinoa still retains most of its protein, fiber, and minerals. Moreover, cooking makes quinoa softer and easier to chew and digest.

Is quinoa better for you than rice or pasta? ›

Quinoa not only has more protein and minerals than pasta, couscous, or rice, but it also has a more favorable glycemic index. Glycemic index is a measure of how quickly a food can make your blood sugar rise and it's an important metric for diabetics. The lower the number, the less a food will raise blood sugar.

Should you eat quinoa raw or cooked? ›

Quinoa can be eaten raw or cooked, but it is most often eaten cooked. Quinoa is frequently used as a substitution for rice because it also takes on the flavor of what it is cooked with. Salads, tacos, and skillet dishes often incorporate quinoa.

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