Description
The Pomegranate & Quinoa Salad is a refreshing, nutrient-packed dish made with quinoa, pomegranate arils, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing. It’s both hearty and light, making it an ideal choice for a variety of occasions. The quinoa serves as a perfect base, providing a complete protein, while the pomegranate adds a burst of sweetness and antioxidants. Complementing these are the slivered almonds for crunch, Kalamata olives for a savory touch, and dried cranberries or raisins to add depth to the sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
- 2 cups water
- ⅓ cup slivered almonds (toasted)
- ⅓ cup fresh pomegranate arils
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh mint leaves
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries or raisins
- ⅓ cup thinly sliced Kalamata olives (optional)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa Rinse quinoa under cold water. Combine with water in a pot, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 15 minutes. Let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and cool.
- Toast the Almonds In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast almonds until golden and fragrant. Set aside.
- Make the Dressing Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Salad In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, herbs, pomegranate, cranberries, olives, and almonds. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.
- Serve or Chill Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days. Garnish with extra herbs or feta if desired.
Notes
his vibrant salad is a refreshing mix of sweet pomegranate, nutty quinoa, and crisp veggies—perfect as a light lunch, a colorful side, or even a make-ahead meal. It’s nutrient-packed, naturally gluten-free, and a delicious way to eat the rainbow
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boil & Toss
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: None
Keywords: Pomegranate salad, quinoa salad with pomegranate, healthy quinoa salad