Best Quinoa Salad Recipe – Freshly Ingredients

Salads often play a key role in summer gatherings. 

As I sat at a picnic table last weekend, enjoying barbecued chicken and corn on the cob, my friend brought out her famous quinoa salad. Instantly, it stole the spotlight. 

The colors were vibrant, and it tasted fresh and satisfying. It struck me that this dish would pair well with anything grilled, from smoky salmon to veggie skewers. That's when it hit me: I needed to share my version of the best quinoa salad with you!

What is the Best Quinoa Salad?

This quinoa salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. It features nutty quinoa, crunchy vegetables, and a variety of herbs. 

Throw in some chickpeas for protein, and you’ve got a wholesome dish that serves as a perfect side or a stand-alone meal. Not only is it healthy, but it also comes together quickly, making it a great option for busy weeknights or summer picnics.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this colorful dish:

For the Salad:

1/2 cup mixed nuts and seeds (e.g., walnuts, pine nuts, pepitas, or sunflower seeds)

1 cup dry quinoa

1 can chickpeas or 1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas

1 medium bell pepper, chopped (1 cup)

1/4 cup dried fruits, such as blueberries or cranberries

1/2 medium cucumber (English variety), diced (1 cup)

1 baby bok choy, finely chopped (2 cups)

1 cup additional grated or chopped vegetables like carrots or broccoli stems, optional

1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, basil, dill, or mint)

For the Dressing:

1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

Juice from 2 to 3 lemon wedges

How to Make the Best Quinoa Salad

This step may seem daunting, but fear not! I'll guide you through the process with straightforward steps.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Rinse and Cook the Quinoa

Start by rinsing the 1 cup of quinoa under cold water. This step helps remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can make it taste bitter. After rinsing, cook the quinoa. Use 2 cups of water or broth. 

Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Once done, fluff with a fork and let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare Your Vegetables

While the quinoa cools, it’s time to chop! Dice the bell pepper, cucumber, and bok choy. If you're adding extra vegetables like grated carrots, go ahead and prepare them now. 

The more colorful your salad, the more inviting it will be!

Step 3: Drain the Chickpeas

If you're using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them under cold water. This step helps reduce sodium and improves flavor.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sea salt, black pepper, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the quinoa, chopped vegetables, chickpeas, and dried fruits. Pour the dressing over the salad, and toss everything gently until combined.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time lets the flavors meld beautifully. Before serving, toss in your fresh herbs for that final touch.

Notes

Before you dive into this salad, here are some handy tips to consider:

• For flavor depth, try roasting the chickpeas beforehand. A bit of olive oil and spices can elevate their taste.
  
• Be creative with your veggies. Use whatever you have on hand. Broccoli, zucchini, or radishes can all work beautifully.
  
• Make it a complete meal by adding grilled chicken or shrimp. Your protein options are endless.
  
• If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with nuts and seeds. They can add crunch and healthy fats.
  
• Don’t skip the chilling time. It enhances the flavors significantly.
  

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so tasty), store them in an airtight container. This salad can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. 

Before enjoying it again, give it a good stir and add a splash of olive oil or vinegar for freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Here are five fantastic ways to enjoy your quinoa salad:

1. As a Standalone Meal: Serve it generously on its own. It’s quite filling and packed with all the nutrients you need for a healthy meal.
   
2. Layered in a Wrap: Spoon the salad into a whole-grain wrap, add some greens, and roll it up for a portable lunch option.
   
3. On Top of Mixed Greens: For a lighter option, place a scoop of the salad over a bed of mixed greens or spinach.
   
4. As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled proteins, like chicken or fish. The salad complements grilled flavors wonderfully.
   
5. Stuffed in Avocado Halves: Scoop out some avocado, and fill it with quinoa salad for a healthy twist that adds creaminess to each bite.
   

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Best Quinoa Salad?

If you want to mix things up, try these five substitutions:

• Farro or Barley for Grains: Both add nutty flavor and chewiness. They’re a great alternative for quinoa lovers.
  
• Lentils Instead of Chickpeas: For a similar protein boost, cooked lentils can provide a different texture and flavor profile.
  
• Spinach instead of Bok Choy: If bok choy is hard to find, fresh spinach is a more readily available option that adds nutrition.
  
• Goat Cheese or Feta for Creaminess: Crumbled cheese can add creaminess and a tangy flavor you might enjoy.
  
• Citrus Zest for Extra Flavor: A little lime or orange zest brightens the salad up, adding a lovely aroma and taste.
  

Conclusion

The best quinoa salad is not just a dish; it’s an experience. From the wholesome ingredients to the summer gatherings that it complements, each bite tells a story. Creating it is a journey in itself. 

You get to customize it as you please and unleash your culinary creativity. So, next time you’re looking for a fantastic meal, look no further. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! Happy eating!

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