As a busy mom, finding time to prepare healthy meals that the whole family will enjoy can be a challenge. Quinoa is a fantastic solution; it's one of the most versatile and cost-effective nutrient-dense whole grains. With 8 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber in just one cup, quinoa helps keep you full and satisfied, making it an excellent choice for weight management and fat loss.

Many of us are familiar with this gluten-free grain, but it can be hard to maintain excitement about healthy eating. As a Sephardic Jew, my background in Middle Eastern cuisine inspires my cooking with vibrant, lemony flavors that make healthy meals enjoyable. I’ve created this delicious Fatoosh Quinoa Salad by giving a classic Mediterranean dish a nutritious twist, perfect for busy moms looking to improve their relationship with food and enhance their wellness.

Why Choose Quinoa?

Quinoa is not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for those hectic days. It is high in protein, gluten-free, and rich in essential nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your family’s meals and an effective strategy for managing weight.

Fatoosh Quinoa Salad Recipe

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 1 cup dry quinoa

- 2 cups water

- 1 tsp sea salt

- 2 Persian cucumbers (sliced thinly on the diagonal)

- 2 Roma tomatoes (quartered and sliced thinly on the diagonal)

- 6 sun-dried tomatoes (thinly sliced, julienne style)

- 10 Kalamata olives (sliced in half on the diagonal)

- 2 radishes (quartered and sliced thinly on the diagonal)

- 1/4 small red onion (sliced thinly on the diagonal)

- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice

- 1/2 tsp black pepper

- 2 Tbsp Za'atar spice blend

- 1 tsp ground sumac

- 2 Tbsp olive oil

- 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley or mint (chopped)

- A handful of pita chips (roughly smashed, optional, like croutons)

- 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled, optional, or served on the side)

Directions:

1. Cook the Quinoa: Bring the water to a boil. Stir in the quinoa and 1 tsp of sea salt. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the water is absorbed, about 15 to 20 minutes. Let it cool for 15 minutes before transferring to a large bowl.

2. Prepare the Vegetables: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cucumbers, Roma tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, radishes, red onion, and parsley or mint.

3. Mix the Dressing: Add the lemon juice, black pepper, sea salt, Za'atar spice blend, sumac, and olive oil to the vegetable mixture. Mix well to ensure all the flavors meld together.

4. Combine: Add the vegetable mixture to the quinoa and toss thoroughly to combine.

5. Serve: Optionally, sprinkle feta cheese crumbles on top for added flavor, or serve it on the side for a protein boost.

Benefits of Fatoosh Quinoa Salad

This Fatoosh Quinoa Salad is not only packed with nutrients but is also quick to prepare, making it ideal for your busy lifestyle. It provides a refreshing taste and helps improve your relationship with food by showcasing how healthy eating can be delicious and enjoyable.

This recipe caters perfectly to mothers looking to manage weight, lose fat, and enhance their family’s overall wellness without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy it as a satisfying side dish or a light main course that everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

Healthy eating doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By incorporating simple, nutritious recipes like Fatoosh Quinoa Salad into your meal rotation, you can enjoy balanced meals that support your health goals. For more easy recipes and wellness tips tailored for busy moms, stay connected to my blog!