Description
1 cup quinoa, rinsed and cooked
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
½ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted
2 cups baby spinach, chopped
½ small red onion, finely diced
For the Orange Ginger Dressing:
¼ cup fresh orange juice
1 tbsp orange zest
1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
¼ cup olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
Cook the quinoa according to package instructions, then let it cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, feta cheese, dried cranberries, toasted almonds, chopped spinach, and diced red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, honey, apple cider vinegar, grated ginger, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 280 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This removes its natural bitter coating. Combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water or broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Components: While the quinoa cooks, finely dice half a small red onion. Chop 2 cups of baby spinach. Toast ¼ cup of sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and golden. Crumble ½ cup of feta cheese.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, zest and juice one orange to get 1 tbsp zest and ¼ cup juice. Whisk the juice and zest with 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp freshly grated ginger, and ¼ cup olive oil. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the slightly cooled quinoa, crumbled feta, ½ cup dried cranberries, toasted almonds, chopped spinach, and diced red onion.
5. Dress and Serve: Pour the prepared Orange Ginger Dressing over the salad. Toss everything thoroughly until evenly coated. Serve immediately for a warm salad, or chill for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad can be served as a nutritious main course for a light lunch. For a heartier meal, pair it with grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas. It’s perfect for meal prep—store the dressed salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It also makes an excellent side dish for summer barbecues or a vibrant addition to a potluck table.
How-to Summary
Cook and cool quinoa. Combine it with feta, cranberries, toasted almonds, spinach, and red onion. Whisk together a fresh dressing of orange juice, zest, ginger, honey, vinegar, and oil. Toss the salad with the dressing and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep. Combine all salad ingredients, store the dressing separately, and toss just before serving to maintain the best texture.
What can I use instead of feta cheese? Goat cheese or dairy-free alternatives like vegan feta work well. For a different flavor, try cubed halloumi or omit the cheese entirely.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve the next day.
Is there a substitute for fresh ginger? You can use ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger, though the flavor will be less bright and sharp compared to fresh.
Can I use a different grain? Absolutely. Couscous, farro, or brown rice are great substitutes. Adjust cooking times according to the grain you choose.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid skipping the step of rinsing the quinoa, as it can leave a bitter taste. Do not add the dressing while the quinoa is piping hot, as it can wilt the spinach and melt the feta. Ensure the almonds are toasted for maximum flavor—raw almonds won’t provide the same nutty depth. Finally, don’t overseason the dressing before tasting; the feta adds saltiness, so adjust carefully.
Conclusion
This Quinoa Salad with Orange Ginger Dressing is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors—sweet, savory, tangy, and fresh. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, packed with nutrients, and adaptable to your dietary preferences. Whether you need a quick weekday lunch or a standout dish for guests, this recipe is a reliable and delicious choice that is sure to become a regular in your rotation.
