Strawberry Quinoa Salad

When summer rolls around, I can’t help but crave fresh, vibrant flavors, and that’s precisely why I adore Strawberry Quinoa Salad. This salad is like a breath of fresh air, bursting with the sweetness of ripe strawberries paired with the nutty texture of quinoa. Picture a sunny picnic, a cozy brunch, or simply a refreshing meal on a hot day. This dish has a knack for bringing people together, whether it’s shared at a potluck or enjoyed solo on a quiet afternoon. Every ingredient is a celebration of spring, making it the perfect way to welcome the warmer months. Each bite is not only nutritious but also a reminder that healthy eating can be deliciously simple. I love how the creamy dressing ties everything together, making it feel indulgent despite being packed with wholesome goodness!

What You Need for Strawberry Quinoa Salad

The ingredients for this salad harmonize beautifully, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly nourishing. Quinoa serves as the base, providing a nutty flavor and a hearty texture. The strawberries add a burst of sweetness, while almonds contribute a delightful crunch. Together, these ingredients form a refreshing medley that’s perfect for spring and summer.

• 2 cups quinoa cooked – This protein-packed grain serves as the foundation of your salad, offering a nutty flavor and satisfying texture.
• 1 cup strawberries hulled and sliced – Fresh strawberries add a juicy sweetness that brightens the dish and provides a pop of color.
• 1/4 cup almonds toasted, chopped – Crunchy and rich in healthy fats, toasted almonds enhance the salad’s texture and flavor.
• 1 tablespoon mint leaves chopped – Fresh mint adds a refreshing aroma and flavor that pairs perfectly with the strawberries.
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt plain – This creamy dressing component provides a tangy base while boosting the dish’s protein content.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – The zest of lemon enhances flavor and adds brightness to the dressing.
• 1 tablespoon honey – A touch of honey balances the tanginess of the yogurt, creating a delightful dressing.
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds – These tiny seeds add a subtle crunch and a hint of nutty flavor to the salad.
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt – A pinch of salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Putting Together Strawberry Quinoa Salad

Making this Strawberry Quinoa Salad is as enjoyable as eating it! Follow these simple steps to create a colorful and delicious dish. You’ll be amazed at how quickly everything comes together!

1. Start by cooking the quinoa according to package instructions. Rinse it under cold water to remove any bitterness, then cook it in a pot with double the amount of water for 15 minutes until it’s fluffy and tender. Once cooked, let it cool.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the strawberries. Wash them thoroughly, hull, and slice them into thin pieces. Set aside to allow their juices to develop.
3. Next, chop the almonds if they’re not already chopped. You can lightly toast them in a dry skillet for a few minutes until they’re fragrant, enhancing their flavor.
4. In a bowl, mix the cooled quinoa, sliced strawberries, and chopped almonds. I like to toss them gently to combine the ingredients without bruising the strawberries.
5. In a separate jar, add the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, honey, and sea salt. Shake well until everything is combined into a creamy dressing. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash of water to thin it out.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything gently to coat. Make sure every piece of the salad gets a good amount of dressing for maximum flavor.
7. For an extra touch, sprinkle some poppy seeds on top of the salad before serving. This adds a nice visual appeal and a little crunch.
8. Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes. This lets the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
9. Serve the Strawberry Quinoa Salad on a platter or individual bowls. It’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it a perfect dish for any occasion!

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips to make your Strawberry Quinoa Salad experience even better. Whether you want to store it, serve it differently, or make variations, these tips can help!

• Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can still be tasty!
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the strawberries and dressing can change texture when thawed.
• Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a perfect side dish for summer barbecues.
• Flavor Boost: Add crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese for a creamy twist and added flavor.
• Herb Variation: Swap mint for basil for a different herbal note that complements strawberries beautifully.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a surprising hint of heat.
• Make it a Meal: Turn this salad into a full meal by adding grilled shrimp or chicken for extra protein.

What to Pair With Strawberry Quinoa Salad

The Strawberry Quinoa Salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Here are some fantastic pairings:

• Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside some juicy grilled chicken for a satisfying and balanced meal.
• Fish: It pairs wonderfully with grilled salmon or any white fish, adding a bright flavor contrast.
• Picnic Treat: This salad is perfect for picnics or potlucks, bringing a refreshing touch to your spread.
• Brunch Delight: Make it a part of your brunch table; it’s a light option that complements heavier dishes.
• Seasonal Side: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers to enhance the salad’s freshness.
• Storage Tips: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge; it stays delicious for a couple of days!
• Lunch Option: This salad is a great lunch option. Pack it for work or school and enjoy a nutritious meal on the go.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Strawberry Quinoa Salad is a celebration of spring flavors, combining the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the nutritious crunch of quinoa. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or a colorful side at a gathering, it’s sure to impress. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s simple, delicious, and a fantastic way to enjoy nature’s bounty. You won’t regret bringing this delightful dish to your table!

Strawberry Quinoa Salad

Craving something fresh and vibrant? This Strawberry Quinoa Salad is bursting with sweet strawberries, nutty quinoa, and a creamy dressing. Perfect for warm days or as a light meal, it’s an easy recipe that will satisfy your taste buds. Make this salad tonight and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 220

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups quinoa cooked
• 1 cup strawberries hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup almonds toasted, chopped
• 1 tablespoon mint leaves chopped
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt plain
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Equipment

• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Start by cooking the quinoa according to package instructions. Rinse it under cold water to remove any bitterness, then cook it in a pot with double the amount of water for 15 minutes until it’s fluffy and tender. Once cooked, let it cool.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the strawberries. Wash them thoroughly, hull, and slice them into thin pieces. Set aside to allow their juices to develop.
3. Next, chop the almonds if they’re not already chopped. You can lightly toast them in a dry skillet for a few minutes until they’re fragrant, enhancing their flavor.
4. In a bowl, mix the cooled quinoa, sliced strawberries, and chopped almonds. I like to toss them gently to combine the ingredients without bruising the strawberries.
5. In a separate jar, add the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, honey, and sea salt. Shake well until everything is combined into a creamy dressing. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash of water to thin it out.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything gently to coat. Make sure every piece of the salad gets a good amount of dressing for maximum flavor.
7. For an extra touch, sprinkle some poppy seeds on top of the salad before serving. This adds a nice visual appeal and a little crunch.
8. Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes. This lets the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
9. Serve the Strawberry Quinoa Salad on a platter or individual bowls. It’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it a perfect dish for any occasion!

Notes

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can still be tasty!

Previous PostClassic Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Next Post Rhubarb Bread

Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.