Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mind-blowing Roasted Pineapple Ham Quinoa Salad that's about to become your new obsession! This isn't just another boring salad – it's a flavor explosion that combines the sweetness of caramelized pineapple, the savory punch of ham, and the nutritious power of quinoa in one absolutely irresistible dish. Perfect for those looking to elevate their meal prep game or impress guests with a restaurant-quality creation that takes less than 40 minutes to prepare!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup roasted pineapple chunks
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitter coating.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- While quinoa is cooking, prepare the pineapple by cutting it into small chunks. Spread pineapple chunks on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 10-12 minutes until edges are slightly caramelized.
- Remove quinoa from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff with a fork and transfer to a large mixing bowl to cool slightly.
- Dice the ham into small, uniform pieces about the same size as the roasted pineapple chunks.
- Add the roasted pineapple chunks and diced ham to the quinoa.
- Chop fresh cilantro and add to the mixture.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently toss all ingredients until well combined, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Serve immediately at room temperature or chill for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Tips
- Quinoa Perfection: Always rinse your quinoa thoroughly to remove the natural bitter coating called saponin. This ensures a clean, nutty flavor in your salad.
- Roasting Hack: For extra caramelization, pat your pineapple chunks dry before roasting to help them achieve a beautiful golden-brown edge.
- Temperature Matters: Let your quinoa cool slightly before adding other ingredients to prevent wilting the fresh cilantro and maintain the salad's texture.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor punch, try using fresh-squeezed lime juice and consider adding a touch of honey or a splash of olive oil for richness.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad tastes even better after chilling for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. It's an ideal make-ahead lunch option!Pro Tip: For a lighter version, you can substitute ham with grilled chicken or tofu, making this recipe versatile for various dietary preferences.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 130kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
