Description
The Mary Berry Quinoa Salad is a refreshing grain-based salad made with cooked quinoa, colorful chopped vegetables, fresh herbs, and a lemony vinaigrette. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—it’s nutritious, versatile, and easy to prepare. This salad is typically served cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics, packed lunches, or as a healthy side at dinner gatherings.
Ingredients
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Quinoa – 1 cup (uncooked): Rinsed and cooked until light and fluffy.
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Red bell pepper – 1, diced: Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
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Cucumber – ½, diced: Crisp and refreshing.
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Cherry tomatoes – 1 cup, halved: Juicy and sweet.
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Red onion – 1 small, finely chopped: Adds a sharp contrast.
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Fresh parsley – 3 tablespoons, chopped: Adds herbaceous flavor and color.
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Fresh mint – 2 tablespoons, chopped: Brings a cooling touch.
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Salt and black pepper – to taste: Balances all the flavors.
For the Dressing:
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Olive oil – 3 tablespoons: Smooth and rich.
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Fresh lemon juice – 2 tablespoons: Brightens the dish.
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Dijon mustard – 1 teaspoon: Adds a little heat and depth.
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Honey – 1 teaspoon (optional): Balances the tang of lemon.
Instructions
Step 1: Rinse and Cook the Quinoa
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Rinse thoroughly: Use a fine mesh sieve to rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness.
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Boil and simmer: Cook 1 cup quinoa with 2 cups water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.
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Fluff and cool: Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
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Chop and dice: Dice the bell pepper, cucumber, and red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
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Chop the herbs: Finely chop parsley and mint.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
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Combine dressing ingredients: Mix olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey in a small jar or bowl.
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Whisk or shake well: Blend until smooth and emulsified. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Combine and Toss
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Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, vegetables, and herbs.
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Add dressing: Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
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Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes: This enhances flavor blending.
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Serve cold or at room temperature.