Quinoa and Asparagus Salad

This quinoa salad keeps things very simple, highlighting this nutty grain in tandem with lots of delicious fresh asparagus. It’s a lot like tabbouli, but with a springtime touch.

Quinoa and Asparagus Salad

This quinoa salad keeps things very simple, highlighting this nutty grain in tandem with lots of delicious fresh asparagus. It's a lot like tabbouli, but with a springtime touch.

5 from 1 vote

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Course: Quinoa salad

Cuisine: Vegan / Healthy

Diet: Vegan, Vegetarian

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 6

Author: Veg Kitchen

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw quinoa any color, or a combination, rinsed
• 10 to 12 ounces fresh slender asparagus
• 1 medium red bell pepper diced
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley or more, to taste
• 2 to 3 scallions finely chopped
• Several fresh mint leaves to taste, thinly sliced, optional
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime or more, to taste
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• Lime wedges for serving optional

Instructions

• Combine the quinoa with 2 cups water in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer until the water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. If you’d like a more tender grain, add 1/2 cup additional water and continue to simmer until the water is absorbed. Allow to cool to room temperature.
• Meanwhile, scrape the bottom halves of the asparagus spears if need be. If fresh and tender, you can skip this step. Cut the asparagus into 1- to 2-inch pieces.
• Place the asparagus in a skillet with just enough water to keep the bottom moist. Cover and steam over medium heat just until bright green and tender-crisp.
• Transfer the asparagus to a colander and rinse with water until it’s at room temperature.
• Combine with the quinoa and asparagus with the remaining ingredients in a serving bowl and mix well. Let stand for a few minutes, then serve. Pass around extra wedges of lime, if you’d like.

Nutrition Information:
Per Serving: 167 calories; 6.7g fat; 24.7g carbs; 3.5g fiber; 7.2g protein; 5.3mg sodium

• Here are more quinoa recipes.
• Click here for more asparagus recipes.
• Explore more of VegKitchen’s super savory salads.