Description
This Fresh Spring Asparagus and Feta Quinoa Salad is a vibrant, healthy dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures. It’s simple to make and ideal for spring gatherings or a light lunch.
Ingredients
Quinoa (1 cup / 170g
uncooked)
Asparagus (1 bunch / about 1 lb / 450g
trimmed and cut into 1-2 inch pieces)
Feta cheese (½ cup / 75g
crumbled)
Cherry tomatoes (1 cup / 150g
halved)
Red onion (¼ cup / 40g
finely chopped)
Fresh lemon juice (from 1 large lemon)
Extra virgin olive oil (3 tbsp / 45 ml)
Garlic (1 clove
minced)
Fresh herbs (2 tbsp chopped parsley or dill)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions, then fluff and set aside to cool.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the asparagus pieces for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, blanched asparagus, crumbled feta cheese, cherry tomatoes (if using), and finely chopped red onion.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Fold in the fresh herbs of your choice.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving for best flavor.
Notes
For extra crunch, consider adding toasted nuts or seeds. This salad is also great served cold or at room temperature, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Salad
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: Fresh Spring Asparagus and Feta Quinoa Salad, easy salad recipe, healthy quinoa salad, spring salad, feta cheese salad