Looking for a healthy, vibrant, and flavorful dish? This Quinoa Salad with Toasted Almonds is a perfect choice. Packed with nutrient-rich quinoa, crunchy almonds, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lime dressing, this salad is both satisfying and light. It’s ideal for a nutritious lunch or a flavorful side dish that can complement any meal.
Quinoa Salad with Toasted Almonds
Course: Salads, SidesCuisine: Mediterranean Inspired4
servings10
minutes20
minutes250
kcalIngredients
1/4 cup slivered almonds
1/2 cup (3 ounces) quinoa
4 teaspoons olive oil
1 yellow bell pepper, ribs, and seeds discarded, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 scallions, thinly sliced
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme, plus more for garnish (optional)
1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
1 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced 1/2-inch thick
1 large celery stalk, diced
1 lime, halved
Directions
- Toast the Almonds: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the slivered almonds for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a small saucepan, combine the quinoa with 1 cup of water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 4 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the yellow bell pepper, minced garlic, scallions, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add Zucchini and Celery: Stir in the zucchini and celery. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the zucchini is tender. Stir in the fresh thyme and season with coarse salt.
- Combine and Serve: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the sautéed vegetables. Add the toasted almonds and toss to combine. Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the salad, garnish with extra thyme if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 6g
This Quinoa Salad with Toasted Almonds is a delicious and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any time of the day. The combination of fresh vegetables, toasted almonds, and zesty lime creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or a flavorful side dish, this salad is a healthy, satisfying option!
