Mixed Berry Quinoa Salad
Mixed Berry Quinoa Salad - A Refreshing and Nutritious Delight
Mixed Berry Quinoa Salad is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This dish is a healthy and refreshing option for those who want to indulge in a delicious meal without compromising on their health. This salad is packed with the goodness of quinoa, mixed berries, and fresh vegetables, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients (serves 4):
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Tips:
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness.
- Use a fine-mesh strainer to drain the quinoa after cooking to remove any excess water.
- Use fresh berries for the best flavor and texture.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the quinoa and water to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, mixed berries, cucumber, red onion, mint, parsley, walnuts, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature.
Appearance and Taste:
Mixed Berry Quinoa Salad is a colorful and vibrant dish that looks as good as it tastes. The quinoa provides a nutty and slightly crunchy texture, while the mixed berries add a burst of sweetness. The fresh vegetables and herbs add a refreshing and savory flavor, while the feta cheese and walnuts provide a creamy and nutty taste. The dressing ties all the flavors together, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
Type of Dish: Salad
Main Ingredients: Quinoa, Mixed Berries, Feta Cheese
