Thai Quinoa Salad
The ultimate summer dish, the Thai Quinoa Salad is a refreshing blend of flavors and textures. Packed with protein and vibrant vegetables, it’s perfect for meal prep or a light lunch. Enjoy it fresh, and savor the taste of summer!
Equipment
- Chef's Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Grater
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 carrot
- 1 English cucumber
- 1 cup edamame
- 6 green onions
- 1-2 cups red cabbage
- 2 cups baby kale
- 2 tablespoons basil
- fresh limes
- 4 teaspoons fish sauce
- 6 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 teaspoons lime zest
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Start by preparing the quinoa. Rinse 1 cup uncooked quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 15 minutes, adding a pinch of salt to the water for flavor. Once cooked, let it cool completely in a large bowl in the fridge.
- While the quinoa is cooling, let’s make the dressing. In a mason jar, combine 4 teaspoons fish sauce, 6 tablespoons lime juice, 2 teaspoons lime zest, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Seal the jar and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust it based on your preference.
- Once the quinoa has cooled, it’s time to add all the delicious vegetables. Toss in 1 chopped red bell pepper, 1 shredded carrot, 1 chopped English cucumber, 1 cup edamame, 6 thinly sliced green onions, 1-2 cups shredded red cabbage, 2 cups coarsely chopped baby kale, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mix. Use tongs to gently toss everything together, ensuring the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. The colors will start to pop, and the aroma will be irresistible!
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial, as it enhances the taste of the Thai Quinoa Salad.
- When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a final toss. You can garnish with extra fresh limes on the side for those who want a little more citrus kick.
- Enjoy your Thai Quinoa Salad fresh! It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal, or you can serve it as a light lunch on its own.