Can this quinoa and lentil salad be served as a full meal?

This salad could potentially be served as a full meal if you eat a large serving of it! However, I would recommend bulking it up a bit with extra protein. Like Oven Baked Chicken Cutlets , Air Fryer Chicken Bites , or Air Fryer Shrimp ! This will make it a more well rounded, satiating meal.

Which lentils should I use for this salad?

You can use green lentils or brown lentils in this salad! I would not use red lentils, this variety is most commonly used in Indian dishes, such as daal. They break down and become mushy quickly, so they are not the best option for a cold salad. French lentils may actually be your best bet! They are thick skinned, thus the least mushy option. Which makes them ideal for recipes like this.

Is this quinoa salad from Costco healthy?

I am not a dietician or nutritionist, but yes in my opinion this copycat of the salad found in Costco's pre-made meal section is VERY healthy! It is jam packed with nutrients! Legumes and quinoa are both often called "superfoods" and so I like to refer to this recipe as my superfood salad. Lentils and quinoa, the two main ingredients, are loaded with plant powered protein and fiber. Which are probably the most important nutrients in a healthy diet! The combo of the two is a recipe for success when it comes to staying full and feeling satisfied. Then on top of that you have loads more fresh vegetables in this recipe. They provide more fiber, plus vitamins and minerals too!

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is fabulous for meal prep! The base of this lettuce-less salad makes it sturdy enough to keep well for a few days. Plus it is one of those salads that tastes better after you have allowed all the flavors to really develop and mix. Which is pretty much a dream for meal prep!

Costco Quinoa Salad Recipe (Easy Copycat!)

Description

This Copycat Costco Quinoa Salad is the perfect fresh, light, and nutritious recipe! Made with tons of fresh vegetables, lentils, quinoa, feta cheese, and a simple lemon vinaigrette – this refreshing, cold salad is full of fiber and plant powered protein. It works wonderfully as a side dish or the base of a main meal!

Ingredients

Scale

Quinoa Salad

1 bag Success Boil-in-Bag Tri-Color Quinoa, or 1 heaping cup of cooked quinoa
1 cup dry lentils
6 oz crumbled feta cheese
4 mini cucumbers, chopped (about 2 cups)
10 oz grape tomatoes, quartered
1 red bell pepper, diced
.5 oz chives, finely chopped
1 bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped

Lemon Vinaigrette

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 lemons, juiced
2 tsp dijon mustard
2 tsp honey
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper

Instructions

First cook the lentils according to the package directions. I cook mine for 15-20 minutes at a light simmer. I find this is the perfect amount of time for the lentils to still have a bit of a bite and firmness. Do not overcook – the lentils will be mushy!
Next prepare the Success Boil-In-Bag Tri-Color Quinoa according to the package directions. Set aside.
In a small bowl or jar prepare the lemon vinaigrette. Add the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dijon mustard, honey, and Italian seasoning. Whisk to combine thoroughly. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
Add the cooked lentils, cooked quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, red bell pepper, chives, fresh parsley, and feta cheese to a large mixing bowl.
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss until evenly combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Optional: Let chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serve and enjoy!

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