Description
Dive into a vibrant bowl of health with our Quinoa Salad featuring roasted beets, juicy oranges, and sparkling pomegranate seeds, all tied together with a zesty homemade vinaigrette. This colorful dish not only pleases the eye but also packs a nutritious punch, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome lunch or a side at your next dinner party.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- Salt, to taste
- 2 medium beets, roasted, peeled, and diced
- 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup walnut pieces, toasted (optional)
- For the Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Quinoa:
- Rinse quinoa under cold running water until the water runs clear.
- In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add quinoa and a pinch of salt, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until all water is absorbed. Remove from heat, let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and allow to cool.
- Make the Vinaigrette:
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine cooled quinoa, diced beets, orange segments, pomegranate seeds, and chopped parsley.
- Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss to combine thoroughly.
- If desired, top with toasted walnut pieces for added crunch.
Notes
- Roasting Beets: Wrap beets in aluminum foil and roast in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Allow to cool, then peel and dice.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the salad sit for about an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 58 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg