Brighten your family’s table with this vibrant Quinoa & Mozzarella Salad, a recipe that’s bursting with fresh flavors and wholesome goodness. It’s a beautifully simple, nutrient-rich dish perfect for a light lunch, a satisfying side, or a healthy potluck contribution that everyone will love.

🕒 TIME

Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total: 30 min (+ cooling time for quinoa)

👨👩👧👦 Servings: 4

🛒 INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup (180 g) quinoa, rinsed well
• 2 cups (500 ml) water
• 1 small green bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 small yellow bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (or ½ red onion for a milder taste)
• A small handful of fresh parsley, very finely chopped
• 1 cup mozzarella pearls (or 1 large mozzarella ball, diced)
• A handful of pomegranate seeds (optional, if in season)
• A handful of baby greens (like baby spinach or arugula) for serving
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or lime juice)
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

👩🍳 PREPARATION

1. Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Set it aside to cool completely.
2. Prep the fresh ingredients: While the quinoa cools, finely dice the colorful bell peppers and the onion. Finely chop the fresh parsley.
3. Assemble the salad: In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, diced peppers, onion, chopped parsley, and mozzarella pearls. If you’re using them, gently fold in the pomegranate seeds.
4. Dress and toss: Drizzle the olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the salad. Season generously with salt and pepper, then toss everything together gently until well combined.

💡 Vitalicious Tip:
To cool the quinoa faster, spread it out in a thin layer on a baking sheet and place it in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes.

💚 NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS

• Complete Plant-Based Protein: Quinoa is a wonderful source of complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, which helps with energy and muscle repair.
• A Rainbow of Antioxidants: The colorful mix of bell peppers provides a variety of vitamins and antioxidants that support a strong immune system and vibrant health.
• Satisfying & Light: This salad is packed with fiber and protein, keeping you feeling full and satisfied without any heaviness, making it a perfect balanced meal.

🌸 VARIATION / OPTION

To make this recipe vegan and dairy-free, simply swap the mozzarella pearls for a cup of cooked chickpeas or cubes of firm tofu. It adds a lovely texture and an extra protein boost!

🌞 SERVING SUGGESTION

Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature on a bed of fresh baby greens. The contrast of the colorful salad against the leafy greens makes for a stunning presentation—your perfect Mama Vitalicious moment of fresh, simple beauty. 🥗

Discover more healthy and family-friendly ideas in our Vita-Meals section!

Frequently Asked Questions