This vibrant Minted Quinoa Fruit Salad is a delightful twist on traditional fruit salads, offering a satisfying texture and refreshing flavor profile. The nutty, protein-rich quinoa provides a hearty base that contrasts beautifully with the juicy sweetness of strawberries, kiwi, and mandarin oranges. A creamy dressing made from vanilla yogurt and fresh mint ties everything together, adding a cool, aromatic finish. It&# 226;ÂÂs an ideal dish for warm summer lunches, potluck gatherings, or as a light, healthy side dish alongside grilled meats. The combination of flavors is both indulgent and nutritious, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a balanced meal. Easy to prepare and customizable, this salad comes together quickly with ingredients you likely have on hand, ensuring it becomes a regular favorite in your recipe rotation.
Minted Quinoa Fruit Salad
Description
This vibrant Minted Quinoa Fruit Salad is a delightful twist on traditional fruit salads, offering a satisfying texture and refreshing flavor profile. The nutty, protein-rich quinoa provides a hearty base that contrasts beautifully with the juicy sweetness of strawberries, kiwi, and mandarin oranges. A creamy dressing made from vanilla yogurt and fresh mint ties everything together, adding a cool, aromatic finish. It&# 226;ÂÂs an ideal dish for warm summer lunches, potluck gatherings, or as a light, healthy side dish alongside grilled meats. The combination of flavors is both indulgent and nutritious, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a balanced meal. Easy to prepare and customizable, this salad comes together quickly with ingredients you likely have on hand, ensuring it becomes a regular favorite in your recipe rotation.Ingredients
Directions
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In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups water and the salt to a boil.
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Add the quinoa to the boiling water.
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Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is translucent and tender.
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Drain any excess water and let the quinoa cool to room temperature.
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While the quinoa cooks, combine the chopped mint, vanilla yogurt, and orange juice in a food processor or blender.
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Puree the mixture until smooth to create the dressing. Set aside.
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Slice the strawberries and kiwi, setting aside six strawberry slices and three kiwi slices for garnish.
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In a large serving bowl, combine the remaining strawberries, remaining kiwi slices, and mandarin orange sections.
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Pour the mint yogurt dressing over the fruit mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
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Add the cooled cooked quinoa to the bowl and toss gently to mix well with the fruit and dressing.
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Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
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Before serving, garnish with the reserved strawberry and kiwi slices.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 232.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3.2g5%
- Saturated Fat 0.4g2%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1231.0mg52%
- Total Carbohydrate 42.6g15%
- Dietary Fiber 9.8g40%
- Sugars 1.8g
- Protein 9.0g18%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
