Thai Quinoa Salad with Fresh Herbs and Lime Vinaigrette
A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring nutty quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lime vinaigrette, perfect for a healthy meal or a side dish.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 275kcal
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled) Nutty and fluffy.
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots Adds sweetness and crunch.
- 1 cup diced cucumber Juicy and refreshing.
- 1/2 unit red bell pepper, thinly sliced Enhances visual appeal.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro Brings freshness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint Adds a cool flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions Elevates flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (for garnish) Adds crunch and richness.
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice Brightens up the salad.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar Enhances the dressing's acidity.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari) Adds umami flavor.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup Balances the dressing's acidity.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil Rounds out the flavor.
- 1 clove minced garlic Enhances overall taste.
- pinch unit red pepper flakes (optional) Add a spicy kick.
Instructions
Combine the Salad Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, shredded carrots, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red bell pepper, chopped cilantro, chopped mint, and chopped green onions.
Mix the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce (or tamari), honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes.
Toss the Salad
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and gently toss everything to coat evenly.
Garnish and Serve
- Top the salad with chopped peanuts and additional herbs. Allow to chill for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Chill the quinoa before mixing for a refreshing salad. Use fresh herbs for best flavor. Customize the heat level with red pepper flakes.