Quinoa White Bean Salad

 This Quinoa White Bean Salad combines tender kale, tasty veggies, beans, and quinoa with a lemon dressing for a dish that’s absolutely delicious.

Perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or meal prep, this salad is bursting with flavors, textures, and nutrients in every bite.

 

 

This quinoa kale salad is a great recipe I reach for again and again. Let me tell you why.

It is so easy to make. With minimal cooking and simple prep steps, this quinoa and white bean salad comes together quickly and effortlessly.

It’s packed with nutrients. High in protein, fiber, and vitamins, this kale and quinoa salad is a powerhouse of health benefits.

It’s a salad, so it is easy to customize with seasonal ingredients.

Have fresh tomatoes? Throw them in. Love black olives? Use those. Out of white beans? Use black beans.

This kale and quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette is delicious even with different flavors.

And it is so make ahead friendly. This quinoa cannellini bean salad will stay fresh for days, even after being dressed. 

Whether you need a perfect side dish or a lunch salad with so much flavor it will keep you satisfied, try this protein-packed quinoa salad. Everyone is sure to love it.

 

 

What Is Quinoa?

Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) is a gluten-free seed often used as a grain substitute.

It’s known for its nutty flavor, fluffy texture, and exceptional nutritional profile, including being a complete protein source.

It looks like tiny balls and works perfectly in this lemon kale quinoa salad.

 

 

What Ingredients Are in Quinoa White Bean Salad?

• Kale: Provides a hearty, leafy base to the lemony white bean quinoa salad.
• Carrot: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color to the white bean and quinoa salad.
• Sweet Red Bell Pepper: Bell peppers add a subtle sweetness and pop of brightness to the salad.
• White Beans: Adds creaminess and plant-based protein.
• Quinoa: Offers a fluffy, nutty base that ties the ingredients together.
• Parsley: Fresh herbs add color and a burst of flavor to the white bean quinoa salad.
• Lemon Zest: Enhances the dressing with a zingy, citrusy aroma.
• Honey: Balances the dressing with a touch of sweetness.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds tang and depth to the dressing.
• Sea Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Lemon Juice: Provides acidity to brighten the dressing.
• Olive Oil: Creates a smooth, emulsified dressing for the kale quinoa lemon salad.
• Black Pepper: Adds subtle warmth and spice.

Pro Tips:

• Use Tuscan kale for a more tender texture.
• Opt for canned white beans like cannellini beans or great northern beans. Garbanzo beans also work well.
• Always use fresh lemon juice for the most vibrant flavor.

 

 

How to Make Quinoa White Bean Salad:

1. Cook the quinoa until fluffy.
2. Prep the kale by removing the ribs and chopping it finely.
3. Grate the carrot and chop the sweet red pepper.
4. Rinse and drain the white beans thoroughly.
5. Chop parsley and combine quinoa and other ingredients in a large bowl.
6. Whisk the dressing ingredients together in a small bowl until emulsified.
7. Toss the salad with the dressing and serve!

Pro Tips:

• Massage the kale with a pinch of salt to make it more tender and flavorful.
• Cool the quinoa before mixing it with other ingredients to prevent wilting the veggies.

 

 

What Are the Health Benefits of Quinoa Salad?

This Quinoa Salad is a nutritional powerhouse with lots of health benefits:

• Protein-Packed: Thanks to quinoa and beans, it supports muscle repair and energy.
• Rich in Fiber: Aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
• Loaded with Antioxidants: Kale, carrots, and red peppers bring a wealth of vitamins and minerals.

 

 

How Long Does Quinoa White Bean Salad Last?

Stored properly, this white bean salad stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Kale greens hold up well in the fridge even with a dressing mixed in.

How to Store Quinoa White Bean Salad:

Store lemon kale quinoa salad in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness and prevent the dressing from softening the veggies.

 

 

Can White Bean Salad Be Made Ahead of Time?

Yes, quinoa and white bean salad can be made ahead of time!

This is great salad for meal prep.

If you are preparing more than 2 days in advance, prepare the components separately and mix them just before serving.

If you will be eating in the next 2 days, you can mix it all together without worrying about the texture of the chopped kale.

The dressing will soften the kale without wilting it.

Can You Freeze White Bean Salad?

Freezing white bean salad isn’t recommended.  

The water in the fresh vegetables will freeze and destroy the protein blocks which will ruin the texture of the vegetables after thawing.

 

 

What to Serve with Quinoa White Bean Salad:

Pair this White Bean Quinoa Salad recipe with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or crusty bread for a complete meal. Try some of these great recipes:

• Seafood Medley Pasta Recipe
• Creamy Mustard Chicken Recipe
• Lemon Herb Chicken
• Cuban Sandwich Recipe
• Turkey Havarti Sandwich
• Vegetable Risotto
• Red Wine Braised Pork Shoulder
• Sriracha Meatballs
• Acorn Squash Pizza
• Sour Cream Enchilada Recipe
• Spicy Turkey Burger Recipe
• Kafta Burger
• Slow Cooked Brisket in Oven
• Deconstructed Cabbage Rolls
• Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad

 

 

Is Quinoa White Bean Salad Healthy?

Yes, this quinoa bean salad is a healthy salad!

It’s packed with fiber, protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, making it an ideal addition to a balanced diet.

Pro Tip: To make this a vegan kale salad recipe, use your favorite sweetener instead of honey.

Try maple syrup for a fun twist!

 

 

Is this Quinoa Salad Gluten-Free?

Yes, lemony kale quinoa salad is gluten free!

Every ingredient is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I Add Protein to Quinoa White Bean Salad?

Lemon Kale and bean salad already has protein from the quinoa, beans, and kale, but yes you can add more! A

dd grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an extra protein boost.

 

 

Whether you are looking for something to do with leftover cooked quinoa or just need delicious recipes that are gluten free, this quinoa white bean salad is easy, healthy, and delicious. It’s tasty enough for a main dish and healthy with loads of flavor.

 

Originally Posted: October 12, 2014

Photos & Text Updated: March 7, 2025

Sharing is caring!