Indulge in a symphony of flavors with our delectable Strawberry Quinoa Spinach Salad, a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the goodness of fresh strawberries, nutty quinoa, tender spinach, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrition, providing a perfect balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins. It's a delightful option for lunch, dinner, or even as a healthy side dish.
In addition to the main recipe, this article also features variations that cater to different dietary preferences and taste buds. Craving a protein boost? Try the Chicken Quinoa Spinach Salad, where succulent grilled chicken takes center stage, adding a savory touch to the mix. For a vegan delight, opt for the Vegan Quinoa Spinach Salad, where chickpeas and sunflower seeds provide a satisfying crunch and a boost of plant-based protein.
If you're seeking a gluten-free alternative, the Quinoa Spinach Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing is a delightful option, featuring a zesty and creamy tahini dressing. And for those who love a burst of sweetness, the Strawberry Quinoa Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
Each recipe is meticulously explained with easy-to-follow instructions, ensuring culinary success for home cooks of all skill levels. So, prepare to embark on a delightful journey of flavors with our Strawberry Quinoa Spinach Salad and its enticing variations. Let your taste buds rejoice as you savor the perfect balance of sweetness, nuttiness, and freshness in every bite.
SPINACH STRAWBERRY SALAD
The best ever Spinach Strawberry Salad with balsamic poppy seed dressing, pecans, and feta. Beautiful, healthy, and always a crowd pleaser!
Provided by Erin Clarke / Well Plated
Categories Salad
Time 20m
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Toast the pecans: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the pecans in a single layer on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until the pecans smell fragrant and the center of a pecan is tan when the pecan is broken in half. (Do not walk away from the oven in the last few minutes of cooking. This is when nuts love to burn.) Transfer to a cutting board and roughly chop.
- Place the sliced onions in a bowl and cover with cold water. Let sit while you prepare the rest of the salad (this keeps their flavor but removes the harsh onion bite).
- Prepare the dressing: In small mixing bowl or large liquid measuring cup, whisk together all of the dressing ingredients-vinegar, oil, poppy seeds, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper-until well combined. (Alternatively, you can shake the ingredients together in a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid).
- Assemble the salad: Place the spinach in a great big serving bowl. Add the strawberries. Drain the red onion and add it as well. Drizzle about half of the dressing over the salad and toss to coat the leaves. Assess the amount of dressing. You want the spinach leaves to be nicely moistened but not swimming in dressing. Add a little more if needed to suit your preferences. Add the feta and pecans. Toss lightly to combine. Serve immediately, with extra dressing on the side as desired.
Nutrition Facts : ServingSize 1 of 6, Calories 249 kcal, Carbohydrate 16 g, Protein 6 g, Fat 20 g, SaturatedFat 5 g, Cholesterol 17 mg, Fiber 4 g, Sugar 10 g
STRAWBERRY SPINACH QUINOA SALAD
Hello lovely! Yes, this is a lovely, lovely salad. It's lovely because it combines a few of my favorite flavors (strawberry, spinach and almonds). It's lovely because it tasted light, but the quinoa made me feel full. And it's even lovelier because it is made of "ingredients I had on hand." Otherwise known as "popular ingredients that most people have"...because I don't buy too many crazy, off the wall or expensive ingredients...so chances are you have these ingredients too! And as you can see from the photo, I chopped up whole almonds...using what I had on hand. It would have been easier to use slivered or chopped almonds (or pecans!), but I didn't have those, so we made do. I'm all about improvising, and making do with what I can find in the pantry! Variation: If I'd had poppyseed dressing on hand, I would have used that...but I used a sweeter red wine vinaigrette that I found in the fridge. A balsamic vinaigrette would be lovely too. Use what you've got! My favorite salad that I eat for lunch several times a week is topped with diced mango, diced avocado and a tangy vinaigrette. So that combo is next on my list for a quinoa summer salad! Nom-nom!
Provided by ElizabethKnicely
Categories Lunch/Snacks
Time 25m
Yield 2 main dish servings, 4 to 6 side dish servings, 2 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Cook the quinoa according to package directions. Cool for at least 2 hours in the fridge.
- When ready to serve, mix together the chilled quinoa, strawberries, chopped spinach and almonds.
- Drizzle the dressing over the top.
- Serve chilled as main dish, or side dish. Perfect for lunch too!
Nutrition Facts : Calories 745.5, Fat 19.5, SaturatedFat 1.9, Sodium 67.5, Carbohydrate 116.9, Fiber 14.9, Sugar 3.5, Protein 28
Tips:
- For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe strawberries. Frozen strawberries can also be used, but they will not be as flavorful.
- If you don't have quinoa on hand, you can substitute another cooked grain, such as brown rice or farro.
- To save time, you can cook the quinoa in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you're short on time, you can also use store-bought roasted chickpeas. However, if you have the time, roasting your own chickpeas is easy and gives them a more delicious flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this salad, such as chopped cucumber, bell pepper, or avocado.
- This salad is best served fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Conclusion:
This strawberry quinoa spinach salad is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy fresh strawberries. It's packed with nutrients and flavor, and it's easy to make. Plus, it's a great way to get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables. So next time you're looking for a light and refreshing salad, give this one a try!
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