Tangy Barberry and Herb Quinoa Salad

This light and refreshing salad bursts with flavor! Tangy barberries, fresh herbs, and fluffy quinoa combine for a satisfying side dish or light lunch.

Tangy Barberry and Herb Quinoa Salad Recipe

By Sylvia

Prep time: 10

Cook time: 20

Servings: 4

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
2 cups water
1/4 cup USimplySeason Barberries
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
1/4 cup chopped scallions
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook Quinoa: In a medium pot, bring water to a boil. Add quinoa and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until quinoa is tender and fluffy. Drain and cool.
Combine Salad: In a large bowl, mix cooled quinoa, barberries, parsley, mint, and scallions.
Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
Dress and Serve: Pour dressing over the quinoa salad and toss to coat evenly. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Notes

Serving Suggestions:
- Protein Boost: Top with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
- Side Dish: Pair with roasted vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or broccoli.
- Lunch on the Go: Enjoy on its own or nestled over a bed of mixed greens.

Alternate Grains:
- Couscous: Substitute couscous for quinoa for a different texture and quicker cooking time.
- Farro: Use chewy farro in place of quinoa for a heartier salad.
- Brown Rice: Swap in brown rice for a nuttier flavor and a boost in fiber.

Flavor Twists:
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of finely grated orange or lemon zest to the dressing for a brighter flavor.
- Spice It Up: Include a pinch of USimplySeason Aleppo Marash or Urfa Marash or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a bit of heat.
- Dried Fruit: Mix in other dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or currants for extra sweetness and texture.

Mix-in Additions:
- Nuts and Seeds: Toss in toasted almonds, pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
- Chopped Vegetables: Include finely diced cucumber, bell pepper, or avocado for freshness and texture.
- Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese would be a delicious, tangy addition.

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