This vibrant Cherry Quinoa Salad with Feta and Citrus Dressing is a delightful fusion of flavors, textures, and colors, perfect for any season. Juicy cherries mingle with nutty quinoa, creamy feta, and a zesty citrus dressing to create a dish that dances on the palate. This salad is not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for lunch, dinner, or a refreshing side dish.
The Origins of Quinoa Salads
Quinoa, often dubbed a superfood, hails from the Andean region of South America, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years. Traditionally, it was referred to as the “mother grain” by the Incas, who recognized its incredible nutritional profile and versatility. As global culinary trends evolved, this ancient grain found its way into modern kitchens around the world, inspiring countless salads that celebrate its unique texture and health benefits.
The Sweet and Savory Symphony
What truly sets this Cherry Quinoa Salad apart is the delightful contrast of flavors. The sweet, ripe cherries bring a burst of juiciness that complements the earthy, nutty notes of quinoa beautifully. Pairing these with the tangy, salty feta cheese elevates the dish to new heights, creating a harmonious blend that feels both indulgent and refreshing. The citrus dressing, made from fresh oranges and a hint of lemon, ties everything together, adding a bright and invigorating finish that leaves you craving more.
Exploring Unique Ingredients
This salad showcases not only the classic combination of quinoa and feta but also introduces seasonal cherries, which are often overlooked. Their natural sweetness balances the savory components, and when combined with a citrus dressing, it creates a multi-dimensional flavor experience. The addition of fresh herbs, such as mint or parsley, can enhance the freshness, making each bite a vibrant celebration of taste.
Cherry Quinoa Salad with Feta and Citrus Dressing
Description
This Cherry Quinoa Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, featuring plump cherries, crumbly feta, and a bright citrus dressing that dances on your palate. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Ingredients for Salad
Dressing for Salad
Instructions
Prepare the Quinoa
-
Rinse the Quinoa
Start by rinsing of quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer. This helps remove the natural coating called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste.
Make sure to rub and swish the quinoa while rinsing to ensure it's thoroughly cleaned. -
Cook the Quinoa
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with water (or broth). Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
Fluff the quinoa with a fork after cooking to separate the grains for a lovely texture.
Prepare the Dressing
-
Mix the Citrus Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the juice and zest of orange, the lemon juice, olive oil, honey, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper.
Taste and adjust seasoning; add more citrus for brightness or honey for sweetness.
Assemble the Salad
-
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, pitted and halved cherries, finely diced red onion, toasted almonds, and crumbled feta cheese.
Feel free to add in any other fresh vegetables you love, like bell peppers or diced cucumbers. You can also add fresh herbs like mint or parsley for extra flavor. -
Dress the Salad
Pour the citrus dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well-coated.Be gentle when tossing to keep the feta crumbles intact for that creamy bite.
Serve and Enjoy
-
Garnish and Serve
Transfer the salad to a serving platter. Garnish with extra feta and a few cherry halves or fresh herbs. Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
This salad is a perfect refreshing dish for summer gatherings or a light lunch, and it can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days.
Note
- Use cooked and cooled quinoa for the best texture; rinse it under cold water after cooking to remove any bitterness.
- For added flavor, toast the quinoa in a dry skillet for 5-7 minutes before cooking.
- Fresh cherries are ideal, but you can substitute with frozen cherries; just thaw and drain them well before use.
- Crumbled feta cheese adds a creamy tang, but goat cheese or blue cheese can be excellent alternatives based on your preference.
- Customize the salad with nuts like sliced almonds or walnuts for crunch and healthy fats.
- Fresh herbs like mint or basil can elevate the flavor profile; consider adding them for a fresh twist.
- For extra zest, add finely chopped shallots or red onion to the salad.
- Citrus dressing can be adjusted; use lemon, lime, or orange juice, and balance it with honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
- This salad is best served fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a light side dish.
