Quinoa Salad Recipe

Quinoa salad is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing. It's a versatile meal that can be served as a light main course or a hearty side dish. The recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a healthy lunch. Quinoa is a high-protein grain, making this salad filling and satisfying. The fresh vegetables add a crisp texture and vibrant colors to the dish. With ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of nuts, it provides a range of vitamins and minerals. The addition of olive oil and lemon juice enhances the flavors while offering healthy fats. A sprinkling of parsley not only garnishes the salad but also adds a refreshing taste. This quinoa salad can be easily customized with your favorite veggies or dressings, making it adaptable for various dietary needs. It's a wholesome dish that brings together flavor, nutrition, and convenience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 70-100 g quinoa
• 1 medium tomato
• 15 cm cucumber
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of one lemon
• A handful of cedar or cashew nuts

Spices & Sauces

• A pinch of salt
• Pepper to taste
• Red onion (optional)
• Parsley for garnish
• Optional: spring onions, sautéed mushrooms, celery stalks, bell pepper
• Additional sauce option: mustard and lemon vinaigrette

Preparation Time

• Total: 25 minutes (including prep and cooking time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
2. Cooking Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with water in a 1:3 ratio (quinoa to water).
3. Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Simmer: Let it cook for 7-12 minutes, until the quinoa has absorbed the water and is tender but still slightly chewy.
5. Drain Excess Water: If there's too much water, drain the excess. Otherwise, let the quinoa cool by turning off the heat.
6. Chop Vegetables: Dice the tomato and cucumber into small pieces, ensuring they're easy to mix and eat.
7. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled quinoa with the chopped vegetables.
8. Add Nuts: Toss in a handful of cedar or cashew nuts for a crunchy texture.
9. Dress the Salad: Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad mixture, ensuring even coating.
10. Season: Add a generous pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
11. Toss the Salad: Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors.
12. Optional: Add sliced red onion, if using, for an extra flavor layer.
13. Garnish: Sprinkle parsley on top for that extra pop of green.
14. Additional Ingredients: Add any extras like spring onions, sautéed mushrooms, celery stalks, or bell pepper, if desired.
15. Vinaigrette Option: For an additional flavor, mix mustard and lemon into a vinaigrette and drizzle over the top.
16. Refrigerate: If possible, let the salad sit in the fridge for a few minutes to enhance the flavors before serving.
17. Serve: Spoon into bowls or onto plates.
18. Taste Test: Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
19. Presentation: Ensure the garnish is evenly spread for an aesthetically pleasing dish.
20. Enjoy: Your quinoa salad is ready to be enjoyed.

Tips

• Quinoa Rinsing: Always rinse your quinoa to remove bitterness.
• Nuts Alternatives: Use almonds or walnuts if cedar or cashew nuts aren't available.
• Freshness: Fresh lemon juice makes a big difference in flavor.
• Cooling: Allow quinoa to cool before mixing to avoid wilting the vegetables.
• Customization: Feel free to add other herbs like cilantro or mint to taste.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 7g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 32g

Variations

• Vegan Option: Ensure all ingredients, including dressings, are plant-based.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Spicy Version: Add some diced jalapenos or a dash of chili flakes for heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside a fresh bread roll or pita.
• Enjoy with a side of hummus for extra creaminess.

Best Places

• Cafe Gratitude - Offers a fabulous variety of quinoa salads with unique dressings. Location: 333 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
• Le Pain Quotidien - Known for its organic quinoa salads in a rustic setup. Location: 100 Grand St, New York, USA.
• Ottolenghi - Renowned for gourmet salads bursting with flavor. Location: 287 Upper St, London, UK.
• Brothers Kafe Kultura - Cozy spot with an exquisite quinoa salad selection. Location: 119 Avenue D Iberville, Montreal, Canada.
• Hiltl - A vegetarian paradise with a diverse salad bar, including quinoa. Location: Sihlstrasse 28, Zurich, Switzerland.
• Nature Cafe & Deli - Popular for fresh, zingy quinoa salads. Location: 8 Oyama KITTE, Tokyo, Japan.
• Deliciously Ella - Emphasizes plant-based eating with hearty quinoa dishes. Location: Weighhouse St, London, UK.
• The Green Rocket Cafe - Ideal for creative, healthy salads. Location: 1 Pierrepont St, Bath, UK.
• Good Life Eatery - A go-to for vibrant, tasty salads. Location: 69 Marylebone Lane, London, UK.
• Little Bird Unbakery - Known for raw, innovative dietary options including quinoa salads. Location: 385 New North Rd, Auckland, New Zealand.