Nutty quinoa salad with toasted pine nuts and fresh herbs.
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Nutrition per Serving
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
- 1In 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.
- 2Move the cooked quinoa into a serving dish and let it cool down until it reaches room temperature.
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.
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