If you’re looking for a vibrant, refreshing, and nutrient-packed dish to brighten up your spring or summer meals, the Strawberry Basil Quinoa Salad with Goat Cheese is the perfect choice. This salad not only offers a burst of color but also combines the natural sweetness of strawberries, the aromatic freshness of basil, and the creamy tanginess of goat cheese, all balanced with a zesty lemon-honey vinaigrette. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch, a brunch spread, or a side dish for your next gathering, this salad is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how you can make this easy and delicious dish!
What is Strawberry Basil Quinoa Salad with Goat Cheese?
The Strawberry Basil Quinoa Salad with Goat Cheese is a delightful, healthy, and versatile salad made from cooked quinoa, fresh strawberries, and basil, topped with crumbled goat cheese and a tangy lemon-honey vinaigrette. It’s an ideal dish for warm weather, offering a balance of flavors and textures that make it perfect for any occasion. This salad combines protein-rich quinoa, fiber from the strawberries and basil, healthy fats from the nuts and olive oil, and the richness of goat cheese, making it a wholesome option for anyone looking to indulge in something light yet satisfying.
The Origin of Strawberry Basil Quinoa Salad
Quinoa has a long history, dating back over 5,000 years to the Andean region of South America, where it was a staple food for ancient civilizations like the Incas. Known for its high protein content and versatility, quinoa has become a popular ingredient in salads, bowls, and various other dishes worldwide.
The combination of strawberries and basil might seem modern, but both ingredients have been used together in culinary creations for centuries, especially in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Strawberries, beloved for their natural sweetness, complement the fresh and slightly peppery taste of basil, creating a pairing that enhances the overall freshness of the salad. Adding goat cheese brings a creamy, tangy layer to the dish, elevating it from a simple salad to a delightful culinary experience.
Ingredients with Quantities: Basil Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad
Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need for this Strawberry Basil Quinoa Salad with Goat Cheese:
For the Salad:
- 1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup fresh basil, thinly sliced (chiffonade)
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced (optional)
- ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts (for crunch)
- 3–4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
For the Lemon-Honey Vinaigrette:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 ½ tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions and Preparation Method
Let’s go through the steps to make the Strawberry Basil Quinoa Salad with Goat Cheese. This process is simple and can be completed in under 30 minutes!
1. Cook the Quinoa:
Start by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove any saponins (natural coating that can make quinoa bitter).
- In a medium-sized pot, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water or vegetable broth.
- Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
- Let the quinoa simmer for about 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
- Once done, fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains, and then let it cool to room temperature.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
While the quinoa cools, prepare the lemon-honey vinaigrette.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 ½ tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Whisk until the ingredients are well combined, and set the dressing aside.
3. Assemble the Salad:
Once the quinoa has cooled, it’s time to put everything together!
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with 1 pint of hulled and sliced fresh strawberries, ¼ cup of thinly sliced basil (chiffonade), ¼ cup of finely diced red onion (optional), and ¼ cup of toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
- Gently toss all the ingredients to mix them well.
4. Add the Goat Cheese:
Before serving, sprinkle 3-4 oz of crumbled goat cheese on top of the salad for a creamy, tangy finish. The goat cheese perfectly complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the freshness of the basil.
5. Toss with Dressing:
Drizzle the prepared lemon-honey vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
Tips & Variations: Strawberry Basil Quinoa Salad
The Strawberry Basil Quinoa Salad with Goat Cheese is highly versatile, and you can make a few tweaks to fit your dietary preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are some great variations to consider:
Make it Ahead:
You can easily prepare this salad in advance! To keep the flavors fresh, store the quinoa and dressing separately, and only mix in the strawberries, basil, and nuts just before serving. This will prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Add Protein:
If you’re looking to turn this salad into a complete meal, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. This will make the salad more filling and satisfying, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Seasonal Swaps:
While strawberries are a star ingredient in this salad, you can swap them out depending on the season. Try using blueberries or raspberries for a different fruity twist. Additionally, you can replace basil with arugula for a peppery, more robust flavor.
Nut-Free Option:
If you need to make the salad nut-free, simply omit the pecans or walnuts. Alternatively, you can add seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for crunch without the nuts.
FAQs About Strawberry Basil Quinoa Salad
1. Can I make this salad without quinoa?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of quinoa or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute it with couscous, farro, or even brown rice for a similar texture and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.
2. Can I use store-bought vinaigrette?
While making the vinaigrette from scratch enhances the flavor, you can use store-bought vinaigrette as a shortcut. Look for one with a tangy, lemony base to complement the ingredients in the salad.
3. How long can I store leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that the dressing may cause the quinoa to soften slightly, but the flavors will still be delicious.
4. Is this Basil Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad gluten-free?
Yes! This Strawberry Basil Quinoa Salad with Goat Cheese is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or following a gluten-free diet.
5. Can I use another cheese instead of goat cheese?
If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can substitute it with feta, blue cheese, or even a creamy ricotta. These cheeses will still provide a nice balance of creaminess and tanginess.
Conclusion: Strawberry Basil Quinoa Salad
In conclusion, the Strawberry Basil Quinoa Salad with Goat Cheese is an incredibly refreshing and versatile dish that’s perfect for spring and summer meals. Whether you’re preparing it as a light lunch, a side dish for a barbecue, or a unique addition to your brunch table, it’s sure to become a crowd favorite. The combination of quinoa, fresh strawberries, basil, goat cheese, and the lemon-honey vinaigrette creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures that are both satisfying and healthy.
Make this salad your go-to dish for warm weather, and enjoy the burst of freshness and vibrant colors that it brings to any table. Don’t forget to experiment with seasonal swaps and variations to keep things exciting. With its easy preparation and numerous options for customization, this salad is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So why wait? Try the Strawberry Basil Quinoa Salad with Goat Cheese today and enjoy a light yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
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Strawberry Basil Quinoa Salad with Goat Cheese: A Refreshing Summer Delight
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Strawberry Basil Quinoa Salad with Goat Cheese is a delightful, healthy, and versatile salad made from cooked quinoa, fresh strawberries, and basil, topped with crumbled goat cheese and a tangy lemon-honey vinaigrette. It’s an ideal dish for warm weather, offering a balance of flavors and textures that make it perfect for any occasion. This salad combines protein-rich quinoa, fiber from the strawberries and basil, healthy fats from the nuts and olive oil, and the richness of goat cheese, making it a wholesome option for anyone looking to indulge in something light yet satisfying.
Ingredients
🥬 For the Salad:
1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
¼ cup fresh basil, thinly sliced (chiffonade)
¼ cup red onion, finely diced (optional)
¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts (for crunch)
3–4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
🍋 For the Lemon-Honey Vinaigrette:
3 tbsp olive oil
1 ½ tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the quinoa:
Rinse quinoa under cold water.
In a medium pot, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
Simmer 15–18 minutes, until liquid is absorbed.
Fluff with a fork and let cool to room temperature.
Prepare the dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the salad:
In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, strawberries, basil, red onion, and nuts.
Pour over the lemon-honey vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
Add goat cheese:
Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top just before serving for a creamy, tangy finish.
Notes
This vibrant salad combines sweet strawberries, fragrant basil, and creamy goat cheese for a refreshing and light meal. Perfect for brunch, picnics, or a healthy lunch. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling & Tossing
- Cuisine: American / Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
Keywords: Quinoa Salad with Strawberries and Basil, Basil Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad, Fresh Berry Quinoa Dish
