I’ve been on the quinoa bandwagon for about 5 years now, so I guess that’s not so much a bandwagon anymore and a part of my diet. While it may be part of my normal pantry items I still get questions every time I bring this to a family gathering: What is that? Keen what? What does it taste like?
Quinoa is my go to for quick lunch time salads, its quick to make and there are so many combinations! Pick your protein (if you want one), add a bit of crunch, maybe some dried fruit, various spices and make a fantastic salad. It really is that easy!
This salad is pretty simple but the dressing is what gives it great flavor. Olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup and a bit of honey. The key is high quality balsamic. Not the cheap stuff, the stuff you would dip bread into. Thick, rich, flavorful and almost syrupy. So spend a bit more (around $10-$15) and get a really high quality one. You will get so much use out of it. I promise.
Balsamic Quinoa Salad
Prep Time: 10 Minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes
Keywords: salad side vegetarian
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Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
- 2 cups quinoa, rinsed
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 4 to 5 green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt/Pepper
Instructions
Cook quinoa and let cool for at least an hour.
In a small bowl, whisk oil, vinegar, honey and maple syrup.
Add cranberries, walnuts, green onions, salt/pepper to quinoa. Top with dressing, stir to combine.
Refrigerate a few hours and serve.
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