Looking for a vibrant and nutritious dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? Dive into the refreshing world of our Crunchy Cabbage and Orange Quinoa Salad! This delightful salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the crispness of cabbage and the sweet burst of juicy oranges, creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. Not only is this salad a feast for the eyes, but it also packs a powerful nutritional punch, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or a colorful side dish at your next gathering. With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up this healthy masterpiece. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 orange, segmented
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer. This helps remove any bitterness from the quinoa's outer coating, known as saponin.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed all the water and is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cabbage and segmented orange. Use a sharp knife to carefully segment the orange, removing the peel and pith, and cutting between the membranes to release the segments.
- Once the quinoa is ready, fluff it with a fork and let it cool slightly before adding it to the mixing bowl with the cabbage and orange.
- Add the sliced almonds and chopped cilantro to the bowl. These will add a nice crunch and fresh flavor to the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper to create a dressing. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together until well combined, ensuring that the dressing evenly coats all the ingredients.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for a refreshing side dish.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Enjoy your Crunchy Cabbage and Orange Quinoa Salad!
Tips
- Rinse the Quinoa: Don’t skip rinsing the quinoa! This crucial step removes the saponin, which can give the quinoa a bitter taste. A quick rinse under cold water in a fine mesh strainer will do the trick.
- Perfectly Fluffy Quinoa: To achieve that fluffy texture, make sure to let the quinoa sit covered for an additional 5 minutes after cooking. This allows any remaining moisture to be absorbed.
- Segmenting Oranges: For a beautiful presentation and easy eating, take your time when segmenting the orange. Use a sharp knife to cut between the membranes, ensuring you get all the juicy segments without the bitter pith.
- Add Crunch: The sliced almonds not only add a delightful crunch but also a nutty flavor. Feel free to toast them lightly in a dry skillet for an extra depth of flavor.
- Dress to Impress: When mixing the dressing, taste as you go! Adjust the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to suit your palate. A touch of honey or maple syrup can also add a sweet note if you prefer a sweeter dressing.
- Let It Marinate: Allowing the salad to sit for about 5 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully. For an even more intense flavor, consider chilling it in the refrigerator for a bit.
- Customize Your Ingredients: This salad is versatile! Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts, add some diced avocado for creaminess, or toss in other seasonal vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.Enjoy creating your own version of this refreshing salad, and don't forget to share it with friends and family!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
