This protein-packed quinoa salad is filled with tender chunks of Lebanese Shish Tawook Chicken, crisp veggies and fresh herbs then tossed with lemon and olive oil.
One of my biggest tips for maintaining long term weight loss is to plan ahead. In addition to putting my workouts in my schedule each week, I always take time on Sundays to meal prep for the week ahead. By planning ahead and having a few dishes ready to grab and eat throughout the week, I am much less likely to be tempted with eating out or eating junk food.
Most recently I created a Lebanese Quinoa Salad which is protein-packed and great for using up any leftover protein or veggies you happen to have on hand. We make Lebanese Shish Tawook Chicken at least once a week so I always have leftovers in the refrigerator.
What is Shish Tawook Chicken? Shish tawook Chicken is a popular Lebanese dish traditionally served on skewers. Chicken is marinated in lemon juice, olive oil, garlic and sometimes yogurt. As the chicken marinades in the lemon, it tenderizes resulting in juicy chicken every single time. In addition to making it on the stovetop, you can also make Sheet Pan Shish Tawook Chicken in the Oven.
For this Lebanese Quinoa Salad, I toss together cooked quinoa with Shish Tawook Chicken, carrots, peppers, scallions and parsley.
Can I Use Any Leftover Protein?
Absolutely! This quinoa salad would be great with shredded rotisserie chicken, leftover pork tenderloin, cubes of cooked beef or chickpeas to keep vegan.
For the dressing, I simply toss the ingredients with lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic then season with salt and pepper. In fact, this dressing is great on just about any salad or as a marinade for grilling or broiling chicken or beef.
How long does a Lebanese Quinoa Salad Last?
If stored in an air-tight container it will be good for up to 4 days. In fact, this salad tastes even better on days two and three! As it sits, the quinoa will absorb all of the flavors of the vinaigrette. If it gets dry simply toss with more lemon juice and olive oil.
Can I Serve This Dish Room Temperature? Absolutely! In fact, it tastes great warm, chilled or served room temperature.
Your fork is waiting.
Lebanese Quinoa Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked quinoa (or grain of choice such as brown rice, farro, spelt, etc.)
- 2 cups cooked Lebanese Shish Tawook Chicken (or any cooked protein such as rotisserie chicken or pork tenderloin)
- 1/2 cup diced red pepper
- 1/2 cup diced carrots (diced)
- 1/2 cup minced scallions
- 1/2 cup minced parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about one lemon)
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare quinoa according to package instructions and place in a large bowl.
- Add cooked Lebanese Shish Tawook Chicken or any cooked protein to the bowl. Stir in all remaining ingredients and toss well. Check for seasoning and adjust accordingly.
Chef's Notes:
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Nutrition:
Find more satisfying salad recipes on my Pinterest boards!
Yumna
Liz made this with me once using rice instead of quinoa and it was so fresh and flavorful! It tastes even better the next day!
Liz DellaCroce
I can’t wait to cook with you again soon!!!