Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is everything you want in a healthy, go-to recipe—it’s fast, flavorful, and full of nutrients. The quinoa provides plant-based protein and fiber, while the tomatoes and basil add a burst of Mediterranean-inspired freshness. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and makes a perfect base for additional add-ins like beans, cheese, or grilled vegetables.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Quinoa, rinsed and cooked
- Cherry tomatoes or chopped ripe tomatoes
- Fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice or balsamic vinegar
- Garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Optional: red onion, avocado, chickpeas, feta cheese
Directions
- Cook the quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the chopped tomatoes and fresh basil.
- Add minced garlic and optional ingredients like red onion or chickpeas if using.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice or balsamic vinegar.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Toss gently until everything is well combined.
- Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2 as a main or 4 as a side. Total preparation time is about 20–25 minutes, including cooking the quinoa.
Variations
- Add cheese: Crumbled feta or fresh mozzarella pairs beautifully with the tomatoes and basil.
- Include protein: Stir in chickpeas, white beans, or grilled chicken.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Add greens: Toss in fresh spinach, arugula, or kale for added nutrients.
- Use roasted tomatoes: For a deeper flavor, roast the tomatoes before adding.
- Make it creamy: Add sliced avocado or a spoonful of hummus on top.
- Add grains: Mix quinoa with couscous or bulgur for a hearty texture.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish is excellent served cold or at room temperature, making it ideal for meal prep. No reheating is necessary, but you can warm it briefly in the microwave or on the stove if desired. Not recommended for freezing.
FAQs
How long does Tomato and Basil Quinoa last in the fridge?
It lasts up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. The flavors develop even more after a few hours in the fridge.
Is quinoa gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free and safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I use other herbs instead of basil?
Fresh parsley, mint, or dill can also work well, though basil gives the most classic flavor.
What kind of tomatoes work best?
Ripe cherry tomatoes or any sweet, juicy tomatoes are ideal for this recipe.
Can I add a dressing?
Yes, a simple vinaigrette or even a pesto-style dressing works wonderfully.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, the base recipe is fully vegan. Just avoid cheese if keeping it plant-based.
Can I serve it warm?
Absolutely, it’s delicious warm, room temperature, or cold.
What’s the best way to cook quinoa?
Use a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio, simmer for about 15 minutes, then let sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of tomatoes and basil may suffer after thawing.
Conclusion
Tomato and Basil Quinoa is a fresh, versatile, and nutrient-dense dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to love. Whether served as a light main, a side dish, or part of your weekly meal prep, this recipe brings bright flavor and wholesome goodness to your table. Simple, healthy, and endlessly adaptable—it’s a salad worth repeating.
PrintTomato and Basil Quinoa
A light, flavorful quinoa salad featuring juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a zesty olive oil dressing. Perfect as a healthy main or side dish, and ideal for meal prep or summer gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2 as a main, 4 as a side
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and cooked
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes or chopped ripe tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- Optional: 1/2 avocado, diced
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, tomatoes, and basil.
- Add garlic, red onion, chickpeas, avocado, or feta if using.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice or balsamic vinegar.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Toss gently until well combined.
- Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
Notes
- Use ripe, sweet tomatoes for the best flavor.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time.
- Add leafy greens like spinach or arugula for extra nutrients.
- Stir in white beans or grilled chicken for added protein.
- Top with a spoonful of hummus for a creamy twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
