17 Quinoa Salad Recipes For Any Season

Considered a superfood, the South American seed quinoa (which is widely accepted as a whole grain) has gained popularity in the Western world in recent years due to its many benefits. Not only is it full of protein, fiber, and vital nutrients, but it can be cooked perfectly in a rice cooker or on the stovetop. You can use it as a simple swap for less fulfilling starches like pasta or rice in a classic recipe or let it inspire something brand new. One of the most popular ways to eat quinoa is in a crisp, fresh salad. From refreshing summer mixes to hearty grain bowls, a tasty quinoa salad can make a satisfying dinner or a simple lunch. The possibilities for quinoa in salads are endless, like this option which with sliced red peppers, toasted pecans and a pinch of cinnamon. Dressed with a touch of cider vinegar and extra-virgin olive oil, this recipe has an excellent combination of texture and color.

This simple dish uses quinoa to add protein to a crunchy and classic Greek salad. Dressed with a tangy red wine vinaigrette, the chopped cucumber, tomatoes and chickpeas add the perfect texture to romaine.

This next quinoa salad has all the flavor of fried rice but is full of vital nutrients from Shiitake mushrooms and snow peas. Simple and versatile, you can serve it warm or cold, as a meal or as a side for tofu or chicken.

Peas and mint are a match made in heaven. When the green legumes come into season in the spring, take advantage of the seasonal bounty and make this fresh salad with an extra kick of heat from a pinch of ground Aleppo pepper.