Ground Beef and Quinoa Salad

Name: Ground Beef and Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth or water; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small red onion, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, diced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Plates

I absolutely love how flavorful and nutritious this Ground Beef and Quinoa Salad is! It's become a staple in my kitchen for its ease and versatility. The combination of hearty ground beef, protein-packed quinoa, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. I often make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; it holds up well in the fridge, and the flavors only get better. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe on hand!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T19:14:27.640Z

When I first tried making a salad with ground beef and quinoa, I was skeptical about how well the flavors would mesh. However, after experimenting with various seasonings and fresh veggies, I found a combination that truly sings. The key is to balance the savory beef with bright elements like lime juice and cilantro, which elevate the dish. Plus, quinoa adds a wonderful texture and complements the protein perfectly.

This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly filling. It's packed with nutrients, thanks to the quinoa and fresh vegetables. I suggest batch cooking the beef and quinoa so you can whip this up in no time during busy weekdays. It's a fantastic way to fuel up while enjoying a colorful meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A deliciously balanced blend of flavors and textures
High in protein and perfect for meal prepping
Fresh ingredients make each bite vibrant and satisfying

Why Choose Quinoa?

Quinoa is not just a trendy grain; it's a nutritional powerhouse. Particularly in this Ground Beef and Quinoa Salad, quinoa acts as a complete protein source, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. This makes it a fantastic protein option, especially when paired with ground beef, which enhances the dish's overall protein content. Ensure you rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural coating, saponin, which can impart a bitter flavor if left unwashed.

Furthermore, quinoa has a pleasant, slightly nutty flavor and a fluffy, tender texture when cooked properly. To achieve the perfect quinoa, I recommend using a 1:2 ratio of quinoa to liquid. After cooking, let it sit covered — this step allows it to steam and achieve that light, airy consistency. Timing is essential; aim for cooking until each grain is translucent and the germ is visible.

Ingredient Insights

The vegetables in this salad are not merely embellishments; they serve crucial roles in both flavor and nutrition. Bell peppers add a sweet and crunchy texture, while cherry tomatoes introduce a juicy burst, enhancing the salad's overall profile. For added heat, consider using a spicy pepper or serrano peppers, which can elevate the dish if you enjoy a kick. Always choose ripe, vibrant tomatoes for the best flavor during the growing season.

Avocado is another star ingredient in this salad, contributing creaminess that balances the richness of the ground beef. If you're planning to assemble the salad ahead of time, consider adding the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. If you want to substitute for avocado, creamy Greek yogurt can also provide a similar texture and a tangy contrast to the beef.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Ground Beef and Quinoa Salad is an excellent candidate for meal prep. After cooking, allow the salad to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers to maintain freshness. If stored properly in the refrigerator, this salad can last up to four days. Just be mindful of keeping the avocado separate until you are ready to consume, as it can brown and detract from the salad's appearance.

If you desire to freeze the salad for a longer-term solution, do so without the fresh vegetables like avocado and cherry tomatoes. This meal could be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then mix in fresh ingredients and lime juice to rejuvenate the flavors before serving.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small red onion, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste

Enjoy your nutritious and tasty salad!

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa

In a saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for about 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 7-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, ground beef, bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Gently fold in diced avocado and cilantro. Drizzle lime juice over the top and mix well.

Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best taste.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can experiment with spices like cumin or paprika while cooking the ground beef.

Serving Suggestions

While this Ground Beef and Quinoa Salad can stand alone, it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. A light cucumber salad or a zesty coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast. You could also serve it with tortilla chips for an enjoyable crunch or warm pita bread for a more filling option. For a nutritious twist, sprinkle your servings with fetta cheese or toasted nuts, adding texture and depth.

Additionally, this salad can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it versatile for dining options. I often find it delicious as a filling lunch right after cooking, but it’s equally satisfying when pulled from the fridge for a quick dinner later in the week.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize this salad based on seasonal ingredients or your taste preferences. For example, swapping out the bell pepper for roasted zucchini or adding sweet corn can provide unique flavor profiles. You could also incorporate black beans or chickpeas for an extra protein boost and a different texture, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

If you're looking for more complex flavors, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the ground beef as it cooks. This will introduce a warm undertone to the dish without overwhelming the other flavors. Fresh herbs, such as parsley or mint, can also offer a different yet refreshing taste when mixed in just before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes cooking quinoa can be tricky — if it turns out mushy, likely too much water was used or it was cooked too long. Remember to adjust the liquid based on the cooking method; stovetop typically requires 1 cup quinoa to 2 cups liquid. For future batches, ensure that you’re monitoring the time closely and tasting often.

When it comes to the ground beef, overcooking can lead to a dry texture. I recommend browning it until just cooked through; the meat should still be moist. If you notice your beef has released too much fat, blot it with a paper towel before mixing it into the salad, as too much grease can overpower the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this salad.

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

The salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it great for meal prep!

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like corn, spinach, or cucumbers.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this salad a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.