Cook your quinoa – I do this in the oven to make it easier. Preheat oven to 350. Mix quinoa, water, and about 1/2 t salt in a baking pan, cover tight, and bake until all water is absorbed (approximately an hour).
While the quinoa is still hot, add in your garlic cubes if you’re using them, so that they can melt. Transfer to a salad bowl.
I find that the parsley spreads better when I first mix it together with the olive oil and lemon juice. Mix those three ingredients together, add to your quinoa.
Slice your grape tomatoes in half and add to the salad. Toss. Serve chilled.