Pin This Strawberry Spinach Quinoa Salad with Balsamic is a vibrant, refreshing summer salad that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. Featuring protein-rich quinoa, tender baby spinach, and juicy sliced strawberries, it serves as a wholesome and light dish ideal for warm-weather lunches or as a colorful side dish.
Pin The combination of crunchy toasted almonds, creamy optional feta, and the sharp bite of red onion creates a complex profile that makes every forkful interesting and satisfying.
Ingredients
- Quinoa: 1 cup quinoa (rinsed), 2 cups water, 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Salad Base: 5 oz baby spinach (washed and dried), 1 cup strawberries (hulled and sliced), 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced), 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional), 1/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
- Balsamic Vinaigrette: 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until quinoa is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let cool to room temperature.
- Step 2
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Step 3
- In a large salad bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, baby spinach, strawberries, and red onion.
- Step 4
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Step 5
- Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and toasted almonds.
- Step 6
- Serve immediately, or chill for up to 2 hours before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Um zu verhindern, dass der Spinat welkt, stellen Sie sicher, dass der Quinoa vollständig auf Zimmertemperatur abgekühlt ist, bevor Sie ihn mit dem Grün mischen. Ein gründliches Abspülen des Quinoas vor dem Kochen entfernt zudem eventuelle Bitterstoffe.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Für eine vegane Version lassen Sie den Feta einfach weg oder nutzen Sie eine pflanzliche Alternative. Zusätzliches Protein wie gegrilltes Hähnchen oder Kichererbsen passt hervorragend dazu, und die Mandeln können nach Belieben durch Walnüsse oder Pekannüsse ersetzt werden.
Serviervorschläge
Am besten schmeckt dieser Salat frisch serviert. Reste können jedoch bis zu einen Tag im Kühlschrank aufbewahrt werden. Er eignet sich hervorragend als Beilage zu Grillgerichten oder als leichtes Hauptgericht an heißen Sommertagen.
Pin This Strawberry Spinach Quinoa Salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple preparation, making it a reliable favorite for healthy eating.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the quinoa and dressing up to 2 days in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Toss everything together before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
- → What can I substitute for strawberries?
Fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries work beautifully. Sliced peaches, apples, or pears also make excellent seasonal alternatives when strawberries aren't available.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The spinach may wilt slightly, so it's best enjoyed fresh. Keep the dressing separate if storing longer.
- → Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?
Couscous, farro, bulgur, or even brown rice work well as substitutes. Adjust cooking times according to package directions and let the grain cool before assembling.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Portion the cooled quinoa into containers, keep spinach and toppings separate, and store dressing in small jars. Assemble individual portions when ready to eat.
- → How can I add more protein?
Grilled chicken breast, chickpeas, black beans, or edamame make excellent protein additions. You can also increase the quinoa portion or add hemp seeds to the mix.