This vibrant quinoa salad brings together the earthy sweetness of roasted beets, the crunch of toasted walnuts, and the zesty freshness of a homemade orange vinaigrette. Packed with nutrients and bursting with color, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious option for a light lunch or a flavorful side dish. The combination of textures and flavors will leave you feeling satisfied and energized, making it a perfect addition to your healthy eating routine.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed 🌾
- 2 medium-sized beets, roasted and cubed ❤️
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted 🌰
- 1 orange, peeled and segmented 🍊
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional) 🧀
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley 🌿
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion 🧅
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
For the Orange Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice 🍊
- 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 🍎
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 🌱
- 1 teaspoon honey 🍯
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
Directions:
1️⃣ Cook the Quinoa:
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
2️⃣ Roast the Beets:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the beets in aluminum foil and roast for 45-60 minutes until tender. Once cooled, peel and cube the beets. Alternatively, you can use pre-cooked beets for convenience.
3️⃣ Toast the Walnuts:
While the quinoa and beets are cooling, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
4️⃣ Prepare the Orange Vinaigrette:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the fresh orange juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
5️⃣ Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted beets, toasted walnuts, orange segments, crumbled goat cheese (if using), parsley, and red onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6️⃣ Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the orange vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, and serve immediately.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour (if roasting beets)
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Calories per Serving:
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
Tips:
- Speed up the process by using pre-cooked beets or buying them from the store to cut down on roasting time.
- Add protein by including grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a more substantial meal.
- If you prefer a vegan option, simply omit the goat cheese.
- Change it up by swapping the walnuts with pecans or almonds, and try adding some arugula for a peppery bite.
Benefits:
- Quinoa is a complete protein, providing all nine essential amino acids, making this salad a fantastic plant-based protein option.
- Beets are loaded with antioxidants and help support healthy blood pressure.
- Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart and brain health.
- The orange vinaigrette is fresh and vibrant, adding vitamin C to boost your immune system.
FAQs:
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the quinoa, beets, and vinaigrette in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and toss together just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
2. Can I use different grains instead of quinoa?
Absolutely! Farro, couscous, or even brown rice would make great substitutes for quinoa in this salad.
3. How long will leftovers last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the salad even more delicious the next day.
4. What if I don’t have fresh orange juice for the vinaigrette?
If fresh oranges aren’t available, you can use store-bought orange juice or substitute it with lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.
Conclusion:
This vibrant quinoa salad with beets, walnuts, and orange vinaigrette is a celebration of color, flavor, and nutrition. It’s a perfect dish for those looking to incorporate more plant-based options into their diet or anyone who enjoys a wholesome, refreshing salad. The combination of earthy beets, nutty quinoa, and tangy orange vinaigrette makes it an unforgettable addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a quick and healthy lunch, this salad will impress with its taste and simplicity.
