Warm Quinoa Salad Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Quinoa Salad with Lime Dressing

This delicious quinoa salad with a tangy lime dressing is a healthy, vibrant dish that is perfect for any occasion. It's quick to prepare, light, and packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a filling meal or a refreshing side dish.

Ingredients

Original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings.

Dressing:

• cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• teaspoon kosher salt
• teaspoon ground black pepper
• teaspoon ground cumin

Quinoa Salad:

• 1 cups water
• 1 cup dry quinoa (such as Quinta)
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 ounce) can yellow corn kernels, drained and rinsed
• cup finely chopped red bell pepper
• cup finely chopped red onion
• cup finely chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

Step 1: To make the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, salt, pepper, and cumin in a large serving bowl until well combined.

Step 2: In a medium saucepan, bring the water, quinoa, and a pinch of salt to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed.

Step 3: Transfer the cooked quinoa into the serving bowl with the dressing. Add the black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.

Step 4: Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or lime juice to suit your preference.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 483
• Total Fat: 18g (23% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 3g (13% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1211mg (53% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 69g (25% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 13g (48% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 16g (32% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 33mg (36% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 79mg (6% Daily Value)
• Iron: 5mg (29% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 823mg (18% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History of Quinoa

Quinoa, a tiny seed hailing from the Andean region of South America, has been cultivated for over 5,000 years. Revered by ancient civilizations like the Incas, quinoa was often referred to as the "mother grain" due to its high nutritional value. It wasnt until the 21st century that quinoa gained global popularity, particularly as a health food. Today, it is recognized worldwide for its versatility in a variety of dishes, from salads to main courses, and is celebrated for being a complete protein source that contains all nine essential amino acids.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

While quinoa originated in South America, its cultivation has spread to many other regions, including North America and Europe. In traditional Andean recipes, quinoa is often combined with locally sourced vegetables and herbs, sometimes seasoned with a variety of spices. The warm quinoa salad, such as the one presented here, is a modern take that incorporates fresh ingredients like bell peppers, onions, and cilantro, with a zesty lime dressing. This dish is typically vegan or vegetarian, making it a great choice for people looking for plant-based meals.

Distinction from Similar Dishes

The warm quinoa salad stands out from other grain-based salads like couscous or rice salads due to the unique texture and nutritional benefits of quinoa. Unlike rice or couscous, quinoa is a complete protein, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. Additionally, quinoa has a slightly nutty flavor and a chewy texture, which gives it a distinctive mouthfeel. Another key difference is the dressing while many grain salads are dressed with creamy sauces or vinaigrettes, this quinoa salad is enhanced with a refreshing combination of olive oil, lime juice, and cumin, giving it a light, bright, and zesty taste.

Where Is It Typically Served?

This warm quinoa salad is versatile enough to be served at a variety of occasions. In the United States and Europe, it is often found as part of a healthy lunch or dinner, especially in vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants. It makes for an excellent side dish at barbecues, potlucks, or dinner parties, thanks to its appealing colors and fresh ingredients. The salad is also a great choice for meal prepping, as it can be enjoyed warm or cold and stores well in the fridge for a few days. Its not uncommon to see quinoa salads served at health-conscious cafes, where people opt for light yet satisfying meals.

Interesting Facts

Quinoa has long been celebrated for its health benefits. It is high in fiber, rich in antioxidants, and an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B-vitamins. Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making it a popular choice for people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Additionally, quinoa has a low glycemic index compared to many other grains, making it a favorable option for people managing blood sugar levels. The addition of beans, corn, and fresh vegetables in this salad not only boosts the flavor but also adds extra fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, making it a perfectly balanced and nutritious meal.

FAQ about Warm Quinoa Salad Recipe

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