Crunchy Quinoa Salad with Citrus Dressing and Nuts

The Crunchy Quinoa Salad is perfect for those looking for a light, nutritious and flavorful meal.

Rich in proteins vegetables, fibers and antioxidants, this recipe combines the softness of quinoa with the crunchiness of fresh vegetables and nuts.

The citrus sauce, made with lemon and orange, adds a refreshing and special touch, elevating the dish to another level.

Ideal for lunch, light dinners or even as a side dish, this salad is an explosion of flavors and textures, easy to prepare and full of benefits for your body.

Detailed Ingredients

For the salad:

• 1 cup quinoa (raw)
• 2 cups of water
• 1 medium grated carrot
• 1 medium cucumber, cut into small cubes
• 1/2 red bell pepper, cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley or cilantro (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped Brazil nuts or almonds

For the citrus sauce:

• Juice of 1 orange
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (for vegans)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Detailed Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the quinoa

1. Wash the quinoa well under running water to remove the bitterness.
2. In a saucepan, add the quinoa and water. Cook over medium heat until the water evaporates (about 15 minutes). Set aside and let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the vegetables

1. While the quinoa cools, prepare the vegetables: grate the carrot, cut the cucumber and pepper into small cubes, and chop the parsley or cilantro, if using.

Step 3: Make the citrus sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, honey (or agave), salt, and pepper. Whisk with a fork until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the salad

1. In a large bowl, mix the cooled quinoa with the vegetables.
2. Add the citrus sauce little by little, mixing well so that all the ingredients are coated in the flavor of the sauce.
3. Finish with chopped chestnuts on top for a crunchy touch.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve the salad at room temperature or refrigerate for 15 minutes to intensify the flavors.

Extra Information

Approximate Nutritional Value (per serving):

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Proteins: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fats: 10g
• Fibers: 4g

Side dishes:

• Pair with a grilled chicken fillet or tofu for a more complete meal.
• Serve with a light soup for a comforting dinner.

Occasion:

• Ideal for light lunches or as a main dish on hot days.

Estimated Cost:

• Approximately R$ 25.00 (serves 4).

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes
• Total: 25 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• Easy. The recipe is practical and uses accessible ingredients.

Useful Tips:

• Replace the quinoa with Moroccan couscous or brown rice if you prefer.
• Try swapping out the chestnuts for walnuts or sunflower seeds.
• Add pieces of fruit, such as mango or avocado, for a tropical variation.

History

This recipe was born on a lazy Sunday, when I wanted something healthy but special. I opened the fridge and saw some forgotten vegetables.

Quinoa was my base and the citrus touch was inspired by a trip to the coast, where I tried a salad with orange. The nuts came as a final detail, reminding me of the care of recipes made with love.

Each ingredient tells a story of simplicity and flavor!