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Instant Pot Quinoa Salad Recipe

This quick and easy quinoa salad is a perfect healthy dish made effortlessly in the Instant Pot. Packed with chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing, this light and refreshing salad is great for meal prep, side dishes, or a nutritious main course.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Salad
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 15-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup flat-leaf parsley chopped
  • 1 cucumber diced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 red onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1-2 cups crumbled feta cheese optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Rinse the quinoa thoroughly by placing it in a fine-mesh strainer and running cold water over it for about 90 seconds. Once drained, transfer it to the Instant Pot along with the broth and stir to combine.
  • Cook under pressure by securing the Instant Pot lid and ensuring the valve is set to the sealing position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set it to high pressure for 1 minute. After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before performing a quick release to release any remaining steam.
  • Fluff and cool by using a fork to separate the quinoa grains. Allow it to sit for approximately 10 minutes to cool slightly before mixing in the other ingredients.
  • Combine salad ingredients by placing the quinoa into a large mixing bowl. Add the chickpeas, parsley, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and minced garlic, tossing everything together evenly.
  • Prepare the dressing by whisking together the seasoned salt, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and red wine vinegar in a small bowl. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and mix well until all ingredients are coated.
  • Finish and serve by adding crumbled feta cheese if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for a more refreshing flavor.

Notes

  • If you don’t want to make a salad, simply season the quinoa and enjoy it as a side dish or use it in other meals.
  • To add protein, consider mixing in grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Keyword best Instant Pot salads, chickpea and quinoa salad, easy Instant Pot recipes, healthy quinoa salad base, Instant Pot quinoa salad, instant pot recipes, lemon quinoa salad, pressure cooker quinoa recipe, quick quinoa salad, vegetarian meal prep
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