Name: Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried; 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Introduction to Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

As a busy mom myself, I know how hectic life can get. Between juggling work, kids, and a hundred other things, it’s easy to neglect healthy eating. That’s why I adore this Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing dish that simply brightens up any day! With vibrant greens, colorful veggies, and a zesty dressing, this salad offers a delightful burst of flavor and nutrition. Whether you need a quick lunch or a light dinner to impress your loved ones, this salad is your go-to solution, ready in just 10 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is not just quick to make; it’s also packed with wholesome goodness! In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s both filling and satisfying. The vibrant flavors brighten your day, while the crunchy vegetables and protein-rich quinoa keep you energized. Plus, it’s a versatile meal that can adapt to your family’s tastes, making it a win-win for everyone!

Ingredients Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Gathering fresh ingredients is part of the excitement! Let’s dive into what’s needed for this delightful Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.

Fresh Spinach: The star of the show! Spinach is rich in vitamins and gives the salad a vibrant green base.
Cooked Quinoa: This tiny grain is a powerhouse of protein and adds a lovely texture, making the salad hearty.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, these add a pop of color and a burst of flavor in every bite.
Cucumber: Crisp and refreshing, cucumber keeps the salad light and crunchy, balancing the other ingredients.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a hint of sharpness, red onion complements the salad beautifully.
Feta Cheese: A sprinkle of feta adds creamy saltiness, elevating the overall taste profile.
Walnuts: Chopped walnuts are perfect for some crunchy texture and healthy fats.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides richness and is packed with heart-healthy fats.
Lemon Juice: The key to the zesty vinaigrette! Fresh lemon juice brings bright acidity.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a touch of sharpness, making the vinaigrette zing.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these enhance the flavors of the salad.

Feel free to customize! If you want more protein, adding grilled chicken or chickpeas works wonders. You can find exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for easy printing!

How to Make Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette. I promise, it’s as easy as pie, or in this case, a salad!

Step 1: Combine Fresh Ingredients

Start by washing your fresh spinach thoroughly. I like to pat it dry with a paper towel, ensuring no water weighs it down. In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, cooked quinoa, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts. Gently toss everything together, letting the colors mix like a painter’s palette. This is where the magic begins!

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette

Next, let’s whisk together the lemon vinaigrette. In a small bowl, mix together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. I find that using a small whisk makes this part extra fun! Add a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper to taste. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened. As you blend, the aroma of lemon fills the air; it’s refreshing!

Step 3: Drizzle and Toss

Now comes the best part! Drizzle the zesty lemon vinaigrette over your beautifully combined salad. Gently toss the salad once more to coat all the ingredients evenly. The lemon dressing hugs every bite, creating a dance of flavors that’s hard to resist. If the salad looks a little dry, feel free to add a splash more of that lovely vinaigrette!

Step 4: Serve or Chill

Your vibrant Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is ready! You can serve it immediately for a fresh and satisfying meal. If you’re preparing it ahead, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully, making each bite even more delicious. Either way, you’ll be in for a delightful treat!

Tips for Success

Prep your ingredients ahead of time for a quick assembly, especially on busy days.
Use fresh, high-quality olive oil for the vinaigrette; it makes a noticeable difference in taste.
For a meal prep twist, double the recipe and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner!
Adding avocado? Just toss it in right before serving to keep it fresh.
Experiment with adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.

Equipment Needed

Large Bowl: For mixing the salad; a mixing bowl works just as well.
Small Bowl: Ideal for whisking the vinaigrette; a mason jar can be a great alternative!
Whisk or Fork: For blending the vinaigrette; a fork will do the trick!
Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables.

Variations

Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein and heartiness.
Swap Cheese: Try goat cheese or even a dairy-free option for a different flavor twist.
Change Nuts: Substitute walnuts with almonds or sunflower seeds for a unique crunch.
Go Grain-Free: Replace quinoa with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
Herb Infusions: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or dill to brighten the flavors even more.
Fruity Twist: Add slices of apple or berries for a sweet contrast to the savory elements.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with Grilled Chicken: Perfect for a heartier meal alongside the salad.
Pair with a Refreshing Drink: Lemonade or sparkling water elevate the meal.
Presentation Tip: Serve in a colorful bowl to showcase your vibrant salad.
Add Crusty Bread: A piece of whole-grain bread makes for a delightful addition.

FAQs about Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Can I make this Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette ahead of time?

Absolutely! I often prepare this salad an hour or even the night before. Just give it a good toss right before serving to refresh the flavors. Remember, though, if you’re adding avocado, keep that for the last minute to avoid browning.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within two days to keep that fresh taste and texture. Maybe re-toss it with an extra drizzle of lemon vinaigrette!

Can I use different vegetables in the salad?

Of course! This salad is super versatile. Add bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even roasted vegetables to mix things up. Just go with what you and your family love!

What can I serve with this salad?

This Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette pairs perfectly with grilled meats or fish for a complete meal. It also shines as a side dish at barbecues or potlucks. You really can’t go wrong!

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, it is! Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this salad a delicious option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just make sure any additional ingredients you use are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Spinach Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of freshness and simplicity! With each bite, you savor the crispness of the vegetables and the zing of lemon, creating a delightful culinary experience. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or enjoying a solo lunch, this salad brings joy and nourishment to your table. I love how quickly it comes together, making my life a little easier and delicious. Give it a try; I can’t wait for you to experience this refreshing burst of flavor!