Strawberry Quinoa Salad Recipe
Here's a fresh and vibrant Strawberry Quinoa Salad recipe-perfect for summer lunches, picnics, or as a light side dish.
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Ingredients:
For the Salad:
1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
2 cups water
1½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
½ cup cucumber, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (or mint, if preferred)
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
¼ cup sliced almonds or walnuts (toasted)
For the Dressing:
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Instructions:
1. Cook the Quinoa:
Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.
Let it cool completely.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, strawberries, cucumber, red onion, and basil.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Top and Serve:
Sprinkle with feta cheese and nuts just before serving for extra flavor and crunch.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
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Tips:
You can add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
Make ahead and refrigerate-it tastes even better after a few hours.