Lemon Tahini Quinoa Salad

A vibrant, plant-based bowl combining nutty quinoa, crisp vegetables and a creamy, lemon-bright tahini dressing. Perfect for meal prep or a light dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Meal-prep friendly and stays fresh for days.

• Delivers complete plant protein from quinoa and beans.

• Creamy yet tangy dressing balances every bite.

• Highly adaptable—swap vegetables, grains or proteins to suit your taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Salad Base Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked quinoa

• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 cup roasted broccoli florets

• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced

• ¼ small red onion, finely diced

• 6–7 fresh basil leaves, chopped

Lemon Tahini Dressing

• 3 tablespoons tahini

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• ¼ cup water (adjust for desired consistency)

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon adobo seasoning (or salt and pepper to taste)

• Pinch of ground turmeric

directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, vinegar, water, smoked paprika, garlic powder, adobo seasoning and turmeric until smooth. If too thick, add additional water in tablespoon increments.

2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, black beans, roasted broccoli, carrot, red onion and basil.

3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients.

4. Serve immediately, or transfer to airtight containers for make-ahead meals.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 2 generous portions

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Roasted Vegetables: Substitute broccoli with cauliflower, bell peppers or sweet potatoes.

• Grain Swap: Use brown rice, farro or millet in place of quinoa.

• Protein Boost: Add chickpeas, cubed tofu or grilled chicken.

• Herb Twist: Stir in parsley, cilantro or dill for fresh aromatics.

• Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes in the dressing.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This salad is designed to be enjoyed cold; allow it to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving, and squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the top to revive the flavors.

FAQs

What type of quinoa should I use?

Any variety—white, red or tri-color—works well. Rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove bitterness before cooking.

Is this salad gluten free?

Yes. Quinoa is naturally gluten free, and all other ingredients are gluten free. Verify that any seasonings or packaged items bear a gluten-free label if sensitivity is a concern.

How far in advance can I prepare this salad?

You may cook the quinoa and roast vegetables up to two days ahead, and blend the dressing one day in advance. Assemble when ready to serve.

Can I use a different bean?

Absolutely. Chickpeas, kidney beans or edamame make excellent substitutes for black beans.

How long will the salad keep?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, it will remain fresh for 3–4 days.

What can I substitute for tahini?

Almond butter or sunflower seed butter may be used; add water gradually to reach a pourable consistency.

Can I serve this warm?

While designed as a cold salad, you may serve the quinoa and veggies warm before tossing with dressing, then chill if desired.

How can I increase the protein content?

Stir in extra beans, add cubed tofu or grilled chicken, or top with toasted nuts and seeds.

What leafy greens pair well?

Baby spinach, arugula or chopped kale may be mixed in for additional color and nutrition.

Is this suitable for vegan meal prep?

Yes. All ingredients are plant-based and hold up well for make-ahead lunches.

Conclusion

This Lemon Tahini Quinoa Salad blends wholesome grains, fresh vegetables and a luxuriously creamy, lemon-bright dressing into a nutritious, adaptable meal. Its speedy assembly and lasting freshness make it an ideal choice for busy weekdays, potlucks or casual dinners. Experiment with variations to tailor it to your preferences, and enjoy a satisfying dish that keeps well from the first bite to the last.