Thai-Inspired Quinoa Salad Elevate Your Taste Buds: A Perfect Balance of Flavors and Nutrition!

Thai-Inspired Quinoa Salad Elevate Your Taste Buds: A Perfect Balance of Flavors and Nutrition!

Looking for a vibrant and delicious salad that’s bursting with flavors? Try this Thai-inspired quinoa salad! Packed with colorful vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and a zesty dressing, it’s perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at your next barbecue.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 carrot, shredded
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

For the dressing:

♦1/4 cup lime juice

♦2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)

♦1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

♦1 tablespoon sesame oil

♦1 clove garlic, minced

♦1 teaspoon grated ginger

♦1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

♦In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and fluffy. Remove from heat and let it cool.

♦In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced bell peppers, cucumber, shredded carrot, chopped cilantro, chopped mint leaves, chopped roasted peanuts, sliced green onions, and dried cranberries or raisins (if using). Toss gently to combine.

♦In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, soy sauce or tamari, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) to make the dressing.

♦Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

♦Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more lime juice, soy sauce, honey, or red pepper flakes according to your preference.

Serve immediately, or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

Enjoy Your Flavorful Salad!

This Thai-inspired quinoa salad is a perfect combination of crunchy vegetables, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing. Serve it as a light lunch on its own, or pair it with grilled chicken or tofu for a more substantial meal. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

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