Celebrate with Flavor: Confetti Quinoa Salad
Looking to add a splash of color and flavor to your meals? Look no further than this Confetti Quinoa Salad! Bursting with vibrant ingredients and tossed in a creamy avocado-lime dressing, this salad is both fun and festive. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or as a refreshing addition to your brown-bag lunch rotation.
A Feast for the Senses:
This quinoa salad is like a party on your plate, with each bite offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors. From the sweet tanginess of pineapple to the crunch of bell peppers and the creaminess of avocado-lime dressing, every mouthful is a celebration of taste and texture. Plus, since there's nothing that can wilt, this salad holds up well, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
Ingredients:
2 cups (370 g) cooked quinoa, cooled
1 cup (165 g) diced pineapple or mango, thawed if frozen
1 cup (165 g) corn kernels, thawed if frozen
1 large red or yellow bell pepper, diced
1 red onion, diced
2 scallions (white and light green parts), sliced
1 large tomato, chopped (about 1 cup/180 g)
1 batch Creamy Avocado-Lime Dressing or Lime Cumin Dressing
Pinch of salt and black pepper
½ cup (80 g) pumpkin seeds, preferably raw and unsalted
¼ cup (15 g) chopped cilantro
Preparation Steps:
Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced pineapple or mango, corn kernels, diced bell pepper, diced red onion, sliced scallions, and chopped tomato.
Make the Dressing: Prepare a batch of Creamy Avocado-Lime Dressing or Lime Cumin Dressing. If not eating immediately, keep the salad separate from the dressing. The undressed salad will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Toss and Season: Toss the salad with the prepared dressing until evenly coated. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the pumpkin seeds and chopped cilantro over the salad for added crunch and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why You'll Love This Salad:
Colorful and Vibrant: With its rainbow of ingredients, this salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious. It's sure to brighten up any meal or gathering.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, this salad comes together in no time. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and nutritious meal.
Versatile: Feel free to customize this salad based on your preferences. Add in your favorite veggies or swap out ingredients to suit your taste.
Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with quinoa, fruits, vegetables, and seeds, this salad offers a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It's a nutritious and satisfying option for any meal.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Since it holds up well in the refrigerator, this salad is ideal for meal prep. Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
In conclusion, this Confetti Quinoa Salad is a celebration of flavor, freshness, and fun. Give it a try and add a splash of color to your plate with this delicious and nutritious dish!
