Quinoa salad Balsamic Dressing 🥗: The Ultimate Guide to a Flavorful and Nutritious Dish

Quinoa with balsamic dressing isn’t just a salad; it’s a complete, nutrient-rich meal that satisfies cravings for something fresh, light, and packed with flavor. In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making this dish, from the health benefits of quinoa to various ways you can customize it. Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Let’s get cooking! 👩‍🍳

Why Quinoa? 🌾 The Nutritional Powerhouse

Quinoa is renowned for its health benefits, and it’s no wonder! As a complete protein, it provides all essential amino acids, making it an excellent choice for plant-based eaters. Additionally, it’s high in fiber, magnesium, iron, and antioxidants, contributing to overall well-being. For more ideas on incorporating quinoa into your diet, check out our Ultimate Guide to Quinoa Salad.

Health Benefits of Quinoa

• High Protein Content 🏋️‍♀️: Quinoa is one of the few plant-based sources of complete protein, ideal for vegans and vegetarians.
• Rich in Fiber 🌿: Helps promote digestion and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
• Packed with Vitamins & Minerals 💊: It’s especially high in magnesium, iron, and B-vitamins.
• Antioxidant-Rich 🛡️: Quinoa’s antioxidants help combat inflammation and protect cells from damage.

Ingredients 🛒

To make this quinoa salad with balsamic dressing, you’ll need the following:

For the Quinoa Salad:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed 🌾 (Rinsing helps remove the bitter saponin coating)
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth 🥣 (Broth adds an extra layer of flavor)
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 🍅
• 1/4 cup cucumber, diced 🥒
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced 🌶️
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped 🧅
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional) 🧀
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish 🌿

For the Balsamic Dressing:

• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar 🍇
• 2 tbsp olive oil 🫒 (Choose extra-virgin for the best flavor)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard 🌿
• 1 clove garlic, minced 🧄
• Salt and pepper to taste 🧂

Pro Tip: Prep your ingredients beforehand for a smooth cooking experience!

Step-by-Step Instructions 🥄

Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa

1. Rinse and Cook: Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can be bitter. Next, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water or broth in a medium pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa absorbs all the liquid. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
2. Cool the Quinoa: Allow the quinoa to cool to room temperature. This step is key for creating a cohesive salad texture.

For more inspiration on quinoa recipes, try our Yummy Bowl Recipe.

Step 2: Make the Balsamic Dressing

While the quinoa is cooling, let’s move on to the balsamic dressing:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste the dressing and adjust salt or vinegar according to your preference.
2. Optional: You can double the dressing recipe to keep extra on hand for other salads—try it on a classic green salad or even as a marinade for grilled vegetables.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad 🥗

In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Pour the balsamic dressing over the mixture, then toss gently to ensure every ingredient is coated. For an extra creamy element, sprinkle the feta cheese on top.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish 🌿

Serve the salad immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley. This salad can also be prepared a day in advance, as it holds well in the fridge. Pair it with our Easy Blackberry Basil Pizza for a balanced and flavorful meal.

Nutritional Breakdown 📊

This quinoa salad with balsamic dressing is a healthy option for any meal. Below is a general nutritional breakdown:

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g (Great for digestive health!)
• Healthy Fats: From olive oil, providing heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
• Key Vitamins & Minerals: High in Vitamin C, iron, magnesium, and antioxidants

Looking for more nutrient-dense meals? Explore our Healthy Comfort Foods collection to find lighter takes on classic dishes.

Variations and Tips 🥑

1. Add Protein: Incorporate chickpeas, grilled chicken, or even tofu for a protein-packed salad that’s fit for a full meal.
2. Make It Vegan 🌱: Skip the feta cheese or substitute with a vegan-friendly option.
3. Try Different Vegetables 🥕: Add shredded carrots, chopped kale, or avocado for an extra nutrient boost.
4. Switch Up the Grain 🍚: For a twist, try substituting quinoa with couscous, farro, or brown rice.

FAQs 📝

Can I make this salad in advance?

Absolutely! Quinoa salad is a great option for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate if you plan on storing it for more than a day.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as quinoa is a seed, not a grain.

How long will this salad last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, this salad can last up to 4 days in the fridge, making it a great option for weekday lunches.

For additional meal-prep ideas, you may want to explore our Meal Prepping with Quinoa.

Conclusion 🍽️

Quinoa with balsamic dressing is a versatile and nutritious recipe perfect for any occasion. With easy preparation steps, customizable ingredients, and a delicious balsamic dressing, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it on its own or as a side to complement any meal—no matter how you enjoy it, this quinoa salad will satisfy your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.

Feel free to reach out if you have questions about preparing this recipe or if you’re interested in additional variations. Enjoy your delicious, healthy quinoa salad! 🥗

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