Go Back
–+ servings
SHealthy Summer Salad High Protein

SHealthy Summer Salad High Protein

A refreshing Mediterranean salad with quinoa, chickpeas, crisp vegetables, and zesty lemon-sumac dressing. High in protein and fiber, perfect for summer meals or picnics.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 420kcal
Author: Samantha Jones

Ingredients

  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa (any color)
  • 15-oz can chickpeas (or 1.5 cups boiled)
  • 1 medium cucumber (diced)
  • 1 red bell pepper (diced)
  • 1 yellow bell pepper (diced, or 1 zucchini)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1 small red onion (finely chopped)
  • 1 large avocado (sliced)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp sumac (or lemon zest)
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  • Cook quinoa in 2 cups boiling water until absorbed
  • Chop cucumber, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion
  • Rinse and drain chickpeas, pat dry
  • Cool quinoa to room temperature (15 minutes)
  • Combine quinoa, chickpeas, and vegetables in a large bowl
  • Toss gently to mix (avoid bruising tomatoes)
  • Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, sumac, and salt in a small bowl
  • Drizzle dressing over salad in 2 batches, tossing between additions
  • Stir in avocado slices just before serving

Notes

Steep red onion in water for 5-10 minutes to mellow bitterness
Chill salad before serving for best texture
Avocado may brown slightly after cutting; stir in quickly for freshness

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 420kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 340mg | Fiber: 12g | Sugar: 5g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!