Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a vibrant and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion! Our Strawberry Quinoa Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is not just a salad; it’s a delightful explosion of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Imagine fluffy quinoa paired with juicy strawberries, creamy feta, and crunchy walnuts, all drizzled with a zesty orange vinaigrette. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish or a light main course, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This helps to remove any bitterness from the quinoa's natural coating, called saponin.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the water has been absorbed.
- After the quinoa is cooked, remove it from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the quinoa to steam and become fluffy.
- While the quinoa is resting, prepare the orange vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the quinoa has rested, fluff it with a fork and transfer it to a large mixing bowl to cool slightly.
- Add the sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts to the bowl with the quinoa.
- Drizzle the orange vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Season the salad with additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
- Serve the Strawberry Quinoa Salad immediately, or refrigerate it for up to an hour to allow the flavors to meld before serving. Enjoy!
Tips
- Rinse Your Quinoa: Don’t skip rinsing the quinoa! This step removes the natural coating called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. A quick rinse under cold water will enhance the flavor of your salad.
- Perfectly Cooked Quinoa: To achieve fluffy quinoa, let it rest covered for an additional 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the steam to finish cooking the grains and prevents them from becoming mushy.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to experiment with your salad ingredients! Add other fruits like blueberries or mango, substitute the feta with goat cheese, or toss in some spinach for an extra nutrient boost.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time! Prepare the quinoa and vinaigrette, and store them separately in the fridge. Combine them with the other ingredients just before serving to keep everything fresh.
- Zesty Vinaigrette: Adjust the sweetness of the vinaigrette by adding more or less honey to suit your taste. A splash of lemon juice can also add an extra tangy kick!
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve it at your next picnic or barbecue for a refreshing side that everyone will love.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 10mg
