Toasted Pine Nut Quinoa Herb Salad

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €4.82 · €1.21/serving

• 1 1/4 cups of quinoa, rinsed in a fine mesh sieve (rinse quinoa until water runs clear to remove bitterness)Est. price €0.75–€1.50
• 2 medium vine-ripened tomatoes, finely diced (remove seeds and excess liquid to prevent salad from becoming watery)Est. price €0.60–€1.20
• 1/2 cup of halved golden cherry or grape tomatoes (choose ripe tomatoes for sweetness and color contrast)Est. price €0.80–€1.60
• 2 to 3 scallions, using only the green tops, thinly sliced (slice at a diagonal for an elegant presentation)Est. price €0.20–€0.40
• 1/2 cup of finely minced fresh flat-leaf parsley, or more according to preference (use tender leaves for a delicate texture)Est. price €0.30–€0.60
• Juice extracted from 1 lemon (taste and adjust acidity level as needed)Est. price €0.25–€0.50
• 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil (choose a high-quality oil for enhanced flavor)Est. price €0.40–€0.80
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (season in layers to ensure even distribution)Est. price €0.02–€0.05
• 1/3 cup of pine nuts, lightly toasted in a dry skillet (stir constantly to prevent burning, remove from heat when fragrant)Est. price €1.50–€3.00

Steps

1. 1

   In a small saucepan, mix the quinoa with 2 1/2 cups of water. Allow it to come to a simmer before reducing the heat. Cover the saucepan and let it gently simmer for about 15 minutes until all the water is absorbed.

2. 2

   Move the cooked quinoa into a serving dish and let it cool down until it reaches room temperature.

3. 3

   Combine all the remaining ingredients together and gently mix until thoroughly incorporated. Serve the dish at room temperature.

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• Cultural note

  Quinoa, a staple grain in South America, is the base of this dish. The use of Mediterranean ingredients like olive oil and lemon juice reflects a fusion of cultural influences, creating a flavorful and healthy salad.

• Seasonal note

  This Toasted Pine Nut Quinoa Herb Salad is best made in the summer when vine-ripened and cherry tomatoes are in season, along with fresh parsley and scallions.

• Health note

  This salad is a nutritious option, providing a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats from pine nuts and olive oil. It is also rich in vitamins A, C, and K, supporting immune health and bone strength.