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Costco Quinoa Salad

A bright, protein-packed quinoa salad built from Costco pantry staples — this meal-prep powerhouse keeps in the fridge for four days and gets better each day.

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
20 min
Servings
6
Cost / Serving
$4.83

Quick Answer

Rinse Kirkland quinoa to remove the bitter coating, simmer in stock, then toss with chopped cucumber, tomatoes, herbs, feta, and lemon vinaigrette. Holds in the fridge for four days and tastes better each day. Ready in 35 minutes; six servings.

This Costco quinoa salad uses the Kirkland Signature organic quinoa as a hearty base, loaded with chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a bright lemon-herb vinaigrette. It's the kind of salad that actually satisfies because the quinoa provides complete protein. Make a big batch on Sunday and it works for lunches all week — the texture holds up without getting soggy.

Instructions

  1. 1

    Rinse quinoa in a fine mesh strainer under cold water for 30 seconds — this removes the natural bitter coating (saponin).

  2. 2

    Combine quinoa and water (or broth) in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.

  3. 3

    Remove from heat and let steam, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and spread on a sheet pan to cool for 10 minutes.

  4. 4

    While quinoa cools, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

  5. 5

    Add cooled quinoa to the bowl with the dressing. Toss to coat.

  6. 6

    Add chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives. Toss everything together.

  7. 7

    Top with feta and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust lemon or salt. Serve immediately or refrigerate — it improves after 30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does quinoa salad last in the fridge?+
Quinoa salad keeps well for 4–5 days in an airtight container. Unlike leafy green salads, quinoa doesn't wilt — in fact, the texture and flavor improve on days 2 and 3 as the dressing absorbs into the grain.
Should I cook quinoa in water or broth for salad?+
Either works, but broth adds more flavor. Chicken or vegetable broth gives the quinoa a savory depth that holds up even after mixing with the vinaigrette. If using water, you may want to add an extra pinch of salt.
Is Kirkland Signature quinoa pre-rinsed?+
Kirkland Signature organic quinoa is pre-rinsed, but giving it another quick rinse before cooking doesn't hurt and ensures there's no residual bitterness from the saponin coating.
Can I add protein to make this quinoa salad more filling?+
Yes — shredded Costco rotisserie chicken, canned tuna, grilled salmon, or sliced hard-boiled eggs all work well. Add the protein after the quinoa has cooled to room temperature to avoid carryover cooking.
Can I make this quinoa salad vegan?+
Easily. Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. The chickpeas already provide substantial protein, and the rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.

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