Hummus Crunch Salad with Crispy Za’atar Quinoa

This Hummus Crunch Salad with Crispy Za’atar Quinoa and a homemade hummus dressing is one of my go-to salads to prep for the week. It is flavorful, packed with veggies and a great plant-based meal option that you can of course add your desired protein too as well.

Are you looking for a vibrant, healthy, and utterly satisfying salad to add to your weekly meal rotation? Enter the Hummus Crunch Salad, a textural masterpiece brimming with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, crispy quinoa, and a creamy hummus dressing that ties everything together. This recipe is easy to make, packed with nutrients, and versatile enough to enjoy as a meal or a side dish.

In this post, we’ll guide you through every step of creating this crave-worthy dish, from crisping the za’atar quinoa to crafting the perfect hummus dressing. Plus, we’ll share tips on customizing the salad to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Hummus Crunch Salad

1. Balanced Nutrition: This salad is a powerhouse of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, thanks to chickpeas, quinoa, and olive oil.

2. Incredible Texture: Crispy quinoa, crunchy vegetables, and creamy dressing create the perfect bite every time.

3. Bold Flavors: Za’atar seasoning, kalamata olives, and hummus deliver layers of savory, tangy, and herbaceous notes.

4. Customizable: Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or simply love Mediterranean flavors, this recipe is easy to adapt.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Crisp the Za’atar Quinoa

1. Prepare the quinoa: If you don’t already have cooked quinoa on hand, start by cooking it according to package instructions. Let it cool slightly.

2. Season and bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cooked quinoa with olive oil, za’atar seasoning, and a pinch of sea salt. Spread it evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

3. Bake to crispy perfection: Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the quinoa is golden and crispy. Let it cool completely before using.

Step 2: Make the Hummus Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the hummus, lemon juice, olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper.

2. Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. It should be creamy yet pourable.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad and Serve

1. Start with a base of leafy greens in a large serving bowl.

2. Layer on the shredded carrots, cabbage, chickpeas, cucumber, and kalamata olives.

3. Sprinkle the cooled, crispy za’atar quinoa over the top for a delightful crunch.

4. Drizzle the hummus dressing over the salad just before serving. Alternatively, serve the dressing on the side for individual customization.

5. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients and enjoy immediately.

Tips for Success

• Meal Prep Friendly: You can prepare the crispy quinoa and hummus dressing up to three days in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. I love these containers!

• Customize the Veggies: Feel free to swap or add vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onion.

• Protein Boost: For extra protein, add grilled chicken, roasted tofu, or more chickpeas.

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing for a spicy kick.

Why Za’atar Quinoa?

Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend made with thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and other herbs. When combined with quinoa and baked to crispy perfection, it adds an irresistible nutty and herby crunch to this salad. Not only does it elevate the flavor profile, but it also provides an extra dose of antioxidants and nutrients.

The Magic of Hummus Dressing

Traditional salad dressings can be loaded with unhealthy fats or added sugars. This hummus dressing offers a healthier alternative that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Hummus provides plant-based protein, olive oil adds healthy fats, and lemon juice brightens the whole dish.

Serving Suggestions

The Hummus Crunch Salad is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:

• As a Main Dish: Enjoy it on its own for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner.

• With Grilled Proteins: Serve alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.

• As a Side Salad: Complement dishes like falafel, pita sandwiches, or roasted vegetables.

Storage and Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the components separately to maintain freshness:

• Crispy Quinoa: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Hummus Dressing: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Vegetables: Store the chopped vegetables in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the salad just before serving.

Final Thoughts

The Hummus Crunch Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience of bold flavors, nourishing ingredients, and satisfying textures. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or meal-prepping for the week, this salad is guaranteed to impress.

Give this recipe a try and let us know how you customize it to make it your own. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media with the hashtag #HummusCrunchSalad—we can’t wait to see what you come up with!

Happy cooking and enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite!

A few other salad dishes to try:

Crispy Rice Bowls with Sesame Tuna Salad

Butternut Squash Fall Harvest Salad with Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette

Chopped Chinese Chicken Salad (gluten-free)