Best 4 Confetti Quinoa Salad Recipes
Indulge in a burst of vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors with our delectable confetti quinoa salad! Packed with an array of textures and a refreshing citrus dressing, this salad is a feast for the eyes and palate.
Quinoa, the ancient grain known for its nutritional prowess, serves as the base of this delightful dish. Its fluffy texture and nutty flavor provide a satisfying foundation for the medley of ingredients that accompany it.
Roasted red bell peppers, with their smoky sweetness, and fresh, crisp cucumbers add a delightful crunch and vibrancy to the salad. Red onion brings a touch of piquancy, while crumbled feta cheese lends a salty, tangy dimension.
The crowning glory of this salad is the confetti-like mixture of colorful vegetables. Diced tomatoes, tender corn kernels, and chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro and parsley add a burst of color and freshness.
To elevate the flavors even further, a zesty citrus dressing made with lemon juice, olive oil, honey, and a hint of Dijon mustard is drizzled over the salad, creating a harmonious blend of tangy, sweet, and savory notes.
Whether served as a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a vibrant addition to your next potluck, this confetti quinoa salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Dive into the detailed recipe below to recreate this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen and experience the symphony of flavors that await you!
CONFETTI QUINOA SALAD
A colorful side to complement any entrée. It's good for you, too-featuring protein-rich grains and edamame.
Provided by By Betty Crocker Kitchens
Categories Side Dish
Time 1h
Yield 16
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- In 3-quart saucepan, heat quinoa, water and salt to boiling; reduce heat. Cover and simmer 15 to 20 minutes or until quinoa is tender. Cool at least 30 minutes.
- Cook and drain edamame as directed on bag. Rinse with cold water to cool; drain.
- In large serving bowl, toss quinoa, edamame and remaining ingredients. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate 1 to 2 hours before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 120, Carbohydrate 12 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Fat 1, Fiber 2 g, Protein 4 g, SaturatedFat 1 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 320 mg, Sugar 4 g, TransFat 0 g
ZESTY CONFETTI SALAD WITH QUINOA
A blend of veggies and quinoa pulled together with a tangy, slightly spicy citrus-pepita dressing. Though there are a lot of ingredients, it's easy to make.
Provided by MN_SpiceHunter
Categories Grains
Time 55m
Yield 5-7 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 17
Steps:
- Rinse quinoa well. Combine with 3/4 cup water in small saucepan. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat and simmer 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed and holes have formed in surface of quinoa. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature or cooler.
- Dry toast pepitas by putting them in a large skillet or frying pan and shaking over high heat until they begin to pop and "dance". Remove from heat.
- In food processor, combine pepitas, cilantro, lime juice, orange juice concentrate, olive oil, chili powder, cumin and salt. Blitz until a rough paste forms. (It looks a little funny at this stage--don't worry!).
- In a very large bowl, combine veggies, quinoa and sesame seeds and toss. Add citrus-pepita dressing and mix well to coat. Chill at least one hour; overnight is ideal.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 285.4, Fat 14.2, SaturatedFat 2.3, Sodium 169.3, Carbohydrate 35, Fiber 7.3, Sugar 11.7, Protein 9
SKINNY CONFETTI QUINOA SALAD
28% less sodium than the original recipe. Serve this hearty salad as a side or a light meatless main dish. The quinoa and Chick Peas provide as much protein per serving as an ounce of meat. Another bonus: This dish is gluten free.
Provided by By Betty Crocker Kitchens
Categories Side Dish
Time 2h25m
Yield 6
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- In a small saucepan, combine broth and quinoa. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Cover and simmer about 15 minutes or until broth is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine sweet pepper, tomatoes, Chick Peas, green onions, parsley, and mint. Add the cooked quinoa; mix well. Add lemon juice; toss well to mix. Season with salt and black pepper. Cover and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 150, Carbohydrate 25 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Fat 1/2, Fiber 5 g, Protein 7 g, SaturatedFat 0 g, ServingSize 3/4 cup, Sodium 200 mg, Sugar 3 g, TransFat 0 g
QUINOA CONFETTI SALAD WITH SUGAR SNAP PEAS & TOASTED PEPITAS
This light, veggie-packed, and protein-rich salad is equally perfect for potlucks, packed lunches, or super-easy dinners.
Provided by Kare for Kitchen Treaty
Time 40m
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Cook the quinoa according to package directions. Set aside and allow to cool.
- Fill a medium saucepan half full with water and bring to a boil. Add the sugar snap peas and boil for one minute. Using a slotted spoon, transfer peas to a few layers of paper towels to dry and cool. When cool enough to handle, cut into 1-inch long pieces.
- Place a medium saute pan over medium heat. Add the pepitas and cook, stirring constantly, until toasted and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Set aside and allow to cool.
- Add quinoa, peas, and pepitas to a large bowl along with the carrots, onion, and chives. Toss to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour dressing over salad and toss again to coat.
- Taste and add additional salt and pepper if desired.
- To store, cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to two days.
Tips:
- To save time, use pre-cooked quinoa. If using dry quinoa, rinse it thoroughly before cooking according to the package instructions.
- Chop the vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces so they are easy to eat.
- Use a variety of vegetables to add color and flavor to the salad. Some good options include bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, corn, and black beans.
- Add some protein to the salad by using grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Use a light and flavorful dressing to avoid overpowering the salad. A simple vinaigrette or lemon-tahini dressing is a good option.
- Serve the salad immediately or store it in the refrigerator for later.
Conclusion:
Confetti quinoa salad is a delicious and healthy side dish or main course that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or everyday meals. It is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, and it is also very versatile. You can easily customize it to your own taste preferences by adding different vegetables, protein sources, and dressings. So next time you are looking for a quick and easy salad to make, give confetti quinoa salad a try!
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