Sesame Spirulina Green Quinoa Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
Elevate your salad game with a vibrant blend of colors, flavors, and nutrients! The Sesame Spirulina Green Quinoa Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a powerhouse of health benefits packed into every bite. This unique salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa, the vibrant green of spirulina, and a burst of citrus freshness that will tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body. Whether you are looking for a light lunch, a hearty side dish, or a refreshing addition to your dinner table, this salad is sure to impress.
Ingredients for a Nutrient-Packed Salad
To make the Sesame Spirulina Green Quinoa Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette, you will need the following ingredients:
Quinoa Base
- 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon spirulina powder
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh spinach or mixed greens
- 1 cup chopped cucumber
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds (toasted)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (or parsley)
Citrus Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 orange
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
With these fresh and wholesome ingredients, you’ll create a salad that not only looks beautiful but is also bursting with health benefits.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Preparing your Sesame Spirulina Green Quinoa Salad is simple and quick. Follow these easy steps to bring your salad to life:
Cooking the Quinoa
- Rinse the Quinoa: Place the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water to remove the bitter saponins on its surface.
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa, water or vegetable broth, and spirulina powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the Quinoa: After resting, fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside to cool.
Making the Citrus Vinaigrette
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, and honey or maple syrup (if using).
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
Assembling the Salad
- Mix Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, spinach, cucumber, shredded carrots, cherry tomatoes, toasted sesame seeds, and chopped herbs.
- Pour Dressing: Drizzle the citrus vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Tips for the Perfect Salad
To ensure that your Sesame Spirulina Green Quinoa Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Quinoa Cooking: Use vegetable broth for extra flavor instead of water.
- Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients such as bell peppers, avocado, or nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Meal Prep: This salad is great for meal prep! It can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients
This salad isn’t just delicious; it’s also loaded with health benefits:
Quinoa
- Complete protein source – contains all nine essential amino acids.
- High in fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
Spirulina
- Rich in antioxidants and nutrients.
- Supports immune function and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Citrus Vinaigrette
- Vitamin C rich – boosts the immune system.
- Healthy fats from olive oil support heart health.
Conclusion
The Sesame Spirulina Green Quinoa Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette is a colorful, nutritious, and absolutely delicious dish that can easily become a staple in your kitchen. Its unique combination of ingredients not only provides a wonderful array of flavors and textures but also promotes overall health. Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or as a side dish, this salad is versatile, easy to prepare, and endlessly enjoyable. So gather your ingredients, whip up this refreshing salad, and treat your body to this vibrant and healthful creation! Enjoy a dish that nourishes you from the inside out!