This vibrant strawberry quinoa salad combines protein-rich quinoa with fresh strawberries, avocado, and a tangy honey lime dressing for a nutritious meal that’s perfect for summer lunches or dinner parties.
Strawberry Quinoa Salad
This colorful, nutritious salad brings together fluffy quinoa, juicy strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy nuts for a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The honey lime dressing ties everything together with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes.
Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or as a side dish for your summer BBQs, this salad is versatile enough to be a light main course or an impressive side dish. Even better, it’s gluten-free and can easily be made vegan with a simple swap in the dressing.
Ingredients
For the salad:
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed well
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 1 large ripe avocado, diced
- ⅓ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup toasted sliced almonds
- 2 cups baby spinach or arugula
For the honey lime dressing:
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Tools Used to Make Strawberry Quinoa Salad
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing quinoa)
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl for mixing dressing
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Whisk or fork for dressing
- Serving spoon
How to Make Strawberry Quinoa Salad
- Cook the quinoa: Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water (or broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and allow to cool completely.
- Prepare the dressing: While quinoa is cooking, whisk together lime juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, strawberries, diced avocado, red onion, and baby greens. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Add finishing touches: Fold in the fresh basil, feta cheese (if using), and toasted almonds. Toss gently to avoid mushing the avocado and strawberries.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving for flavors to meld.
Looking for a perfect summer dessert to complement this salad? Try our refreshing lemon blueberry trifle!
Serving Strawberry Quinoa Salad
For the best presentation and flavor, serve this strawberry quinoa salad on a large platter or in a shallow bowl to showcase all the vibrant colors. If you’re making it ahead, add the avocado and nuts just before serving to maintain their texture.
This salad works beautifully as:
- A light lunch with a slice of crusty homemade cheese bread
- A side dish for grilled chicken or BBQ pineapple chicken kabobs
- An elegant starter for dinner parties
- A healthy contribution to potlucks and picnics
For a complete meal, consider pairing it with our crispy buttermilk fried chicken for a delicious contrast of flavors and textures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make strawberry quinoa salad ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the components 1-2 days ahead. Cook and cool the quinoa, prepare the dressing, and store them separately in the refrigerator. Add the strawberries, avocado, and other fresh ingredients just before serving.
How long does strawberry quinoa salad last in the refrigerator? This salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours, but will keep for up to 2 days in an airtight container. The avocado may brown slightly, and the strawberries will soften over time.
Is quinoa salad healthy? Absolutely! Quinoa is a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids. Combined with the antioxidants from strawberries, healthy fats from avocado, and other nutrient-dense ingredients, this salad makes a well-balanced, nutritious meal.
Can I make this salad vegan? Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese and substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for honey in the dressing. All other ingredients are plant-based.
What can I substitute for quinoa? If you don’t have quinoa on hand, try bulgur wheat, farro, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For a gluten-free alternative to quinoa, try millet or buckwheat.
Need a refreshing drink to serve with this salad? Check out our ultimate 5-layer strawberry shortcake cheesecake for a decadent dessert option!
Final Thoughts
Transform your summer meals with this refreshing strawberry quinoa salad. Try it today and share your creative variations – I’d love to see how you make this recipe your own!