Imagine a salad that's not just a boring pile of greens, but a vibrant, nutritious explosion of flavor that will make your taste buds dance and your body thank you! This Carrot Arugula Quinoa Salad with Almonds is the ultimate healthy meal that proves eating well can be absolutely delicious. Packed with protein-rich quinoa, peppery arugula, sweet carrots, and crunchy almonds, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Healthy
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Quinoa, cooked
- Arugula
- Carrots, grated
- Almonds, sliced
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitter coating.
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with water (use a 2:1 water to quinoa ratio). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed.
- Remove quinoa from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff with a fork and allow to cool to room temperature.
- While quinoa is cooking, wash and grate carrots using a box grater or food processor, creating thin, uniform shreds.
- Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes). Set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled quinoa, grated carrots, and fresh arugula leaves.
- Prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl.
- Pour dressing over the salad and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle toasted almonds on top just before serving to maintain their crunch.
- Serve immediately at room temperature or slightly chilled for optimal flavor and texture.
Tips
- Quinoa Rinsing is Crucial: Always rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove the natural saponin coating, which can make it taste bitter.
- Toasting Almonds Matters: Take the time to toast your almonds - it brings out their nutty flavor and adds an incredible depth to the salad.
- Temperature Technique: Let the quinoa cool to room temperature before mixing to prevent wilting the arugula and maintain the perfect texture.
- Dressing Dynamics: Whisk your dressing thoroughly and add it gradually, ensuring each ingredient is perfectly coated without becoming soggy.
- Freshness is Key: Use fresh, crisp arugula and grate carrots just before mixing to maintain maximum flavor and nutrition.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad can be prepared in advance, but add the almonds and dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.Pro tip: This salad is incredibly versatile - feel free to add grilled chicken or roasted tofu for extra protein!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 293kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
