Best 2 Caprese Quinoa Salad Recipes

Caprese Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the classic flavors of caprese salad with the wholesome goodness of quinoa. This delicious salad is easy to make and perfect for a light lunch or dinner. You can serve it as a main course or a side dish.

The salad is made with a base of cooked quinoa, which is then tossed with fresh mozzarella cheese, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. A tangy balsamic vinaigrette dressing adds a delightful finishing touch.

This recipe also includes some variations on the classic Caprese Quinoa Salad, such as a Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with chickpeas and feta cheese, a Greek Quinoa Salad with cucumber and red onion, and a Vegan Caprese Quinoa Salad made with plant-based cheese.

These variations offer a range of flavors and textures to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking for a healthy and satisfying meal, you're sure to find a Caprese Quinoa Salad recipe that you'll love.

Let's cook with our recipes!

CAPRESE SALAD WITH QUINOA AND BROWN RICE

Caprese Salad With Quinoa and Brown Rice image

Caprese salad is a classic recipe with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil. This version adds a little brown rice and quinoa for a heartier salad. The honey balsamic dressing gives the dish a lightly sweet and tangy flavor. It's delicious and will be great for a picnic or even a dinner party.

Provided by Peggy O'Brien

Categories Other Salads

Time 20m

Number Of Ingredients 6

Ingredients

1 lb Campari tomatoes
1 lb fresh mozzarella balls
1/4 c red onion, diced
1 oz fresh basil, chopped
1 pkg quinoa and brown rice
1/2 c light honey balsalmic dressing

Steps:

1. Cut tomatoes into wedges.
2. Chop red onion and basil.
3. Prepare quinoa/brown rice as directed on the package.
4. Mix together quinoa/rice, tomatoes, onion, and basil in a bowl.
5. Add mozzarella balls and gently toss in honey balsamic vinaigrette.
6. Refrigerate and serve cold.

CAPRESE QUINOA SALAD

CAPRESE QUINOA SALAD image

Categories Salad Tomato Basil

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

2 cups cooked quinoa (start with 1 cup uncooked quinoa, 2 cups water, and cook according to package directions)
1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes (substitute with any variety diced tomatoes)
8 ounces (about 1 cup) mini fresh mozzarella cheese balls (substitute with crumbled feta, blue cheese, or your favorite cheese)
about 10 to 15 torn basil leaves, or to taste
3 to 4 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil
3/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
pinch sugar, optional and to taste (brings out the flavor of the tomatoes and balances the vinegar)

Steps:

Cook quinoa according to package directions and place cooked quinoa in a large bowl. Add all remaining ingredients and toss very well to combine. Taste and see if salad needs more vinegar, salt, etc. and season or tweak accordingly. I found it needed a fairly generous amount of salt and a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors for my taste preferences. Salad can be served immediately or transfer to an airtight container, refrigerate, and allow flavors to marrinate for up to 24 hours before serving. Salad will keep airtight in the fridge for up to 3 days, noting that vegetables will release water as time passes.

Tips:

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness.
Cook the quinoa according to the package directions.
Allow the quinoa to cool completely before assembling the salad.
Use a sharp knife to cut the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese into even slices.
Drizzle the salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar to taste.
Garnish the salad with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Serve the salad immediately or chill it for later.

Conclusion:

Caprese quinoa salad is a refreshing and flavorful salad that is perfect for a summer meal. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own preferences. With its combination of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, this salad is a delicious and nutritious option that is sure to please everyone at your table.