Quinoa, Orange, Beet, and Arugula Salad with Orange Balsamic Dressing
Try this Quinoa, Orange, Beet, and Arugula Salad with Orange Balsamic Dressing recipe.
Try this Quinoa, Orange, Beet, and Arugula Salad with Orange Balsamic Dressing recipe.
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 3 medium-sized oranges(one used in the dressing the other 2 peeled, diced, and seeded)
- 4 heaping cups arugula washed and dried
- 2-3 smallish beets
- 2 cups cooked and chilled quinoa (i just make extra one n and chill for the salad the next day)
- 1/2 cup walnuts and pecans (soaked and dehydrated and/or t
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste depending on how salty your mustard is)
- Carbohydrate 13.4804133672026 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 51.6453333770061 g
- Fiber 0.253333341631309 g
- Protein 0.486306667746713 g
- Saturated Fat 7.13036800602938 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (138g)
- Sodium 15.9266667098461 mg
- Sugar 13.2270800255713 g
- Trans Fat 1.41999466787423 g
- Calories 523 calories
Step-by-step
- Prepare the orange balsamic dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, orange zest, orange juice, and salt.
- Cook the beets: Boil or roast the beets until tender. Once cool, peel and dice them.
- Prepare the oranges: Peel, dice, and seed two oranges.
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and chilled quinoa, diced beets, diced oranges, arugula, and nuts.
- Dress the salad: Pour the orange balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
A Vibrant and Healthy Salad for Any Occasion
As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for healthy and delicious recipes that don't require hours in the kitchen. This Quinoa, Orange, Beet, and Arugula Salad with Orange Balsamic Dressing is a perfect example of a dish that's both nutritious and satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. It's become a staple in my meal rotation, perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even a vibrant side dish at a gathering.
The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility. The combination of earthy beets, peppery arugula, and sweet oranges creates a delightful flavor profile that's both refreshing and complex. The quinoa adds a hearty texture and protein boost, making it a complete and satisfying meal. I often find myself making extra quinoa the day before, so it's ready to go for this salad. The orange balsamic dressing is the star of the show, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the oranges with the tanginess of the balsamic vinegar and the richness of the olive oil. It's incredibly simple to make, yet adds so much depth of flavor to the entire dish.
Why this salad is a winner:
- Quick and Easy: The preparation time is minimal, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, it's a great way to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet.
- Delicious and Flavorful: The combination of sweet, earthy, and peppery flavors creates a truly unforgettable taste experience.
- Versatile: You can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking. Feel free to add other nuts, seeds, or even some crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor and texture.
- Make-ahead friendly: The salad can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making it a perfect meal prep option.
Tips and Variations:
- Roasting the beets: Roasting the beets brings out their natural sweetness and adds a lovely depth of flavor. Simply toss them with a little olive oil and roast them in a 400°F oven for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
- Adding protein: For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu to the salad.
- Different nuts: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds, pistachios, or macadamia nuts.
- Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like mint or parsley can elevate the flavor profile of the salad.
- Citrus variations: Try using grapefruit or mandarin oranges instead of regular oranges for a different flavor twist.
This Quinoa, Orange, Beet, and Arugula Salad with Orange Balsamic Dressing is more than just a salad; it's a culinary experience. It's a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn't have to be boring. It's a dish that nourishes both body and soul, and one that I’m confident will quickly become a favorite in your home too. I often find myself making a double batch, enjoying it for lunch throughout the week, and it's even become a go-to dish for potlucks and gatherings with friends. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the vibrant flavors for yourself!
Enjoy!
